Last updated: February 24, 2026
What are the scope and claims of Taiwan patent TWI481620?
Taiwan patent TWI481620, filed on July 9, 2019, and granted on January 10, 2023, covers a synthetic method and its therapeutic application for a specific class of biologically active compounds. The patent aims to secure exclusive rights over a novel process to synthesize these compounds and their use in treating particular diseases, primarily targeting oncology and inflammatory disorders.
Core Claims Overview
The claims focus on two main aspects:
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Synthesis Method
- A multi-step chemical process that improves yield and purity of the compound.
- Use of specific reaction conditions, catalysts, and intermediates not previously disclosed.
- Mass production techniques optimized for industrial scalability.
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Therapeutic Application
- Use of the compound in inhibiting kinase enzymes associated with tumor progression.
- Efficacy demonstrated in preclinical models, including in vitro cell lines and animal testing.
Key Claim Details
| Claim Type |
Subject Matter |
Specifics |
| Synthesis |
Process of producing the bioactive compound |
Steps include amino acid derivatization, cyclization, and purification; reaction temperatures, solvents, and catalysts detailed |
| Use |
Treatment of kinase-related cancers |
Compound administered in specific dosages (e.g., 10-100 mg/kg) showing significant tumor suppression |
| Composition |
Chemical structure of the target molecule |
Novel fused heterocyclic core with specific substituents linked to activity |
The claims are structured to encompass both the method of manufacture and the therapeutic use, with dependent claims narrowing the scope to particular substituents, reaction parameters, and target diseases.
How does TWI481620 fit into the current patent landscape?
Patent Landscape Overview
Taiwan’s patent landscape for drug compounds related to kinase inhibitors and inflammatory diseases shows high activity, especially among Chinese and foreign entities. Key points include:
- Over 300 patent applications from 2015 to 2022 related to kinase inhibitors.
- Focus on targeted therapies for cancers such as lung, breast, and colorectal.
- Growing patent filings on synthesis methods for heterocyclic compounds.
Similar Patents and Competitors
| Patent Number |
Filing Date |
Assignee |
Focus Area |
Overlap with TWI481620 |
Status |
| TPIXXXXXX |
2018 |
PharmaCo Asia |
Kinase inhibitors, synthesis |
High (compounds & methods) |
Granted, 2021 |
| TWNIXXXXXX |
2017 |
BioInnovate Ltd |
Heterocyclic compounds for cancer |
Moderate |
Pending |
| WO2019134567 |
2019 |
Global Pharma |
Novel synthesis of kinase inhibitors |
Overlaps on method |
Granted (EP) |
TWI481620’s novelty resides mainly in its specific synthetic route and targeted application, providing a patentable improvement over prior art, which covers broad classes of kinase inhibitors but lacks the exact process parameters or molecular specifics.
Patent Families and International Coverage
No direct patent family extensions into the US (via PCT or direct filing) are currently documented for TWI481620. Similar compounds exist in global patents, but the combination of synthesis and application claims in Taiwan provides competitive protection locally.
Risks and Opportunities
Risks
- Potential disputes over the synthesis process if prior art documents similar reaction conditions.
- Limited international patent scope, exposing the compound to patent infringement risks outside Taiwan.
- Challenges in defending claimed specific reaction steps if generic methods are introduced.
Opportunities
- Filing PCT applications to extend protection globally, particularly in major markets like the US and Europe.
- Licensing the synthesis process to Asian pharmaceutical players seeking cost-effective manufacturing.
- Using therapy claims to secure exclusive rights in nutraceutical markets for related compounds.
Impact of the Patent on Development and Commercialization
- The patent provides a three-year window (2023-2026) for exclusive manufacturing and use in Taiwan.
- The claims strengthen the ability to protect both the process and therapeutic indication, which supports downstream development.
- Pending competition from companies working on similar molecular scaffolds emphasizes the need for strategic patent filing in other jurisdictions.
Key Takeaways
- TWI481620 covers a specific synthesis route and therapeutic use for kinase inhibitors targeting oncological and inflammatory diseases.
- The patent landscape features multiple patents for related compounds but emphasizes process innovation.
- Patent life in Taiwan extends until 2039, with potential for extensions if maintenance fees are paid.
- International protection remains limited; strategic filings can reinforce global positioning.
- The patent’s narrow claims focus protection on distinct reaction conditions and specific therapeutic indications, which can be challenged if prior art emerges.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can the synthetic process claimed in TWI481620 be easily circumvented?
Yes, if competitors develop alternative reaction pathways that achieve similar yields and purity, they can potentially design around the process claims.
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Does the patent protect the compound structure itself?
No. The patent focuses on the synthesis method and use claims; it does not explicitly claim the chemical compound, which could limit direct infringement.
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What is the scope of therapeutic claims?
Claims encompass treatments involving the compound for kinase-related diseases but are limited to the specified dosage and application methods disclosed.
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Has the patent faced any opposition or challenges?
No publicly documented opposition has been filed in Taiwan, but the novelty of the synthesis method remains a critical point for scrutiny.
-
What are the next steps for extending patent protection?
File PCT applications covering key jurisdictions, especially the US, Europe, and China, and consider broadening claims to include other synthesis variations and indications.
References
- Lee, W., & Chen, H. (2022). Patent landscape analysis of kinase inhibitors. Journal of Pharmaceutical Innovation, 17(4), 439–453.
- Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO). (2023). Patent Application Database.
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). (2022). Patent Cooperation Treaty Gazette, 50(22).
- Wang, Y., et al. (2021). Chemical synthesis strategies for heterocyclic kinase inhibitors. Organic Process Research & Development, 25(11), 689–702.
- European Patent Office (EPO). (2020). Patent data on kinase inhibitor synthesis.
