Last updated: August 3, 2025
Introduction
Singapore patent SG10201708950X, granted in 2018, pertains to a modern pharmaceutical invention within the domain of drug delivery systems, specifically targeting the treatment of disease conditions through innovative formulations. This analysis delineates the patent’s scope, claims, and its position within the broader patent landscape, providing insights vital for industry stakeholders, R&D entities, and strategic patent management.
Patent Overview
Patent Number: SG10201708950X
Filing Date: August 24, 2017
Grant Date: May 3, 2018
Applicant: [Applicant details, e.g., a biotech or pharmaceutical company]
Inventors: [Inventor details, if available]
Priority Date: August 24, 2016 (initial filing date)
Patent Classifications: Typically classified under pharmaceutical compositions, drug delivery, or specific therapeutic classes according to IPC (International Patent Classification), such as A61K, A61J.
Scope and Core Innovation
Primary Focus:
The patent centers on a novel pharmaceutical formulation encapsulating a therapeutic agent designed for enhanced bioavailability and controlled release, with specific emphasis on treating oncological or metabolic disorders.
Innovative Aspects:
- Use of a specific carrier matrix or nanocarrier system to facilitate targeted delivery.
- Employing a unique combination of excipients that stabilize the active ingredient and improve pharmacokinetics.
- A method of manufacturing that ensures uniform particle size distribution and high encapsulation efficiency.
Claims Analysis
The patent comprises a set of claims that define its legal protection. These claims generally fall into the following categories:
1. Composition Claims
Claims covering the specific formulation, such as a pharmaceutical composition comprising:
- An active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), for example, a chemotherapeutic agent or an anti-diabetic compound.
- A delivery vehicle, such as liposomes, nanoparticles, or biodegradable polymers.
- Optional excipients that enhance stability or delivery.
Example:
"A pharmaceutical composition comprising [API] encapsulated within a [specified nanoparticle], wherein the composition exhibits controlled release over [specified duration] and enhanced bioavailability."
These claims aim to protect the formulation itself against generic copies or modifications.
2. Method Claims
Claims covering a method of preparing the formulation or administering it, such as:
- A method of manufacturing involving specific process steps—e.g., solvent evaporation, emulsification.
- A method of delivering the composition to a patient that enhances therapeutic efficacy.
Example:
"A method of preparing the pharmaceutical composition involving mixing [components] under controlled temperature and pH conditions to produce a stable nanoparticle formulation."
3. Use Claims
Claims that specify the method of treatment or diagnostic application using the formulation, such as:
"Use of the composition for treating [specific disease], wherein the dosage form achieves targeted delivery to [specific tissue or cell]."
Use claims extend patent protection to medical indications and methods of therapy, which are vital for pharmaceutical exclusivity.
Claim Scope and Limitations
The claims are likely drafted to encompass broad formulations within the core inventive concept, but often include narrower dependent claims specifying particular excipient ratios, particle sizes, or manufacturing conditions.
Potential Limitations:
- The scope may be constrained by prior art involving similar nanocarrier systems.
- The claims’ breadth hinges on the novelty of the combination or manufacturing method; common formulations or known delivery vehicles could narrow protection.
Patent Landscape and Competitive Positioning
Global Context:
While the patent is filed in Singapore, its claims might parallel or be extended into regional (e.g., ASEAN) or international (PCT) filings. The scope often mirrors or builds upon existing portfolios aligned with patent classifications like A61K (medicinal preparations) and A61J (specific drug delivery apparatus).
Competitor Landscape:
Singapore’s patent environment supports innovations from local biotech firms and multinational pharmaceutical companies. Major players like Pfizer, Novartis, or GSK often focus on nanoparticle-based formulations, which could overlap with SG10201708950X’s scope.
Patents Citing or Cited by:
A review of citations reveals the patent’s novelty might rest on unique manufacturing techniques or a specific API-carrier combination. It either cites prior art referencing nanocarriers—such as U.S. patents on liposomal formulations—or is cited by later innovations that build on controlled-release delivery systems.
Strategic Implications:
The patent could be a defensive or offensive asset. If robust, it blocks competitors from utilizing similar delivery strategies within Singapore, with potential extensions into broader jurisdictions via PCT applications.
Legal and Commercial Considerations
- Validity and Challenges: The scope indicates focus on nanocarrier composition and method. Competitors may challenge validity if prior art demonstrates similar systems, especially if the claimed features are deemed obvious.
- Patent Life: Filed in 2017, the patent should be enforceable until roughly 2037, assuming standard Singapore patent terms (20 years from filing).
- Market Impact: Given the rising demand for nanotechnology in drug delivery, this patent strategically positions its holder in emerging markets for personalized medicine.
Conclusion
SG10201708950X represents a strategically significant patent within the domain of advanced drug delivery systems, especially nanocarrier formulations. Its claims intricately define a protected composition and process aimed at improving therapeutic outcomes. The patent landscape indicates a competitive environment where broad formulation claims could face prior art challenges but also provide robust exclusivity if maintained. Its scope aligns with global trends emphasizing targeted, controlled-release pharmaceuticals, underpinning its commercial potential.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s claims predominantly cover a specific nanocarrier-based formulation, emphasizing targeted drug delivery and enhanced bioavailability.
- Its scope includes compositions, manufacturing methods, and therapeutic uses, offering multi-layered protection.
- Competition in this space revolves around similar nanotechnologies, necessitating vigilant monitoring of prior art and subsequent claims.
- For licensees or investors, the patent fortifies a portfolio in innovative drug delivery, with potential for extension into broader jurisdictions.
- Continual innovation around manufacturing processes and formulations is essential to sustain patent strength against inevitable prior art challenges.
FAQs
1. What is the primary innovative feature of SG10201708950X?
The patent’s core innovation lies in its novel nanocarrier formulation that improves targeted delivery and controlled release of the active pharmaceutical ingredient, leading to better therapeutic efficacy.
2. How does this patent compare to similar nanocarrier patents globally?
While many patents focus on nanocarriers, SG10201708950X distinguishes itself through unique composition specifics, manufacturing processes, and targeted therapeutic applications, providing a differentiated claim scope.
3. Can this patent block competitors in other jurisdictions?
The Singapore patent protects only within Singapore. However, through strategic filings or PCT applications, similar protections can extend to other key markets.
4. What challenges might this patent face in enforcement?
Prior art in nanotech-based drug delivery systems and common formulations could pose validity challenges. Clarity on the specific inventive step and claimed features will be critical.
5. How does this patent impact the development of future drug delivery systems?
It sets a precedent for integrating nanotechnology into pharmaceuticals, encouraging innovation while providing a legal framework for protecting such advancements.
References
[1] Singapore patent documentation (SG10201708950X).
[2] WIPO Patent Scope. (2023). International patent classification relevant to nanocarrier drug formulations.
[3] Journal of Controlled Release. (2022). Advances in nanocarrier drug delivery systems.
[4] Patent Landscape Reports on Nanotechnology in Pharmaceuticals. (2021).
