Last updated: March 17, 2026
What does the scope of WO2006079474 cover?
WO2006079474 is a WIPO patent application titled "Compositions and methods for treating inflammatory diseases," filed by Anthera Pharmaceuticals. Its scope encompasses novel compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of treatment related to inflammatory conditions, including autoimmune diseases.
Key points:
- The patent claims encompass novel chemical entities with anti-inflammatory activity.
- The compounds are designed to inhibit specific cytokines or pathways involved in inflammation, notably targeting cytokines like TNF-α.
- The scope extends to both the chemical structures and their pharmacological uses.
- It covers methods of treatment employing these compounds, focusing on inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis.
- Additionally, the application claims formulations, dosages, and methods of administering** the active compounds.
The patent's claims mainly emphasize small molecule inhibitors targeting inflammatory signaling pathways, with specific structural features disclosed that distinguish them from prior art.
What are the main claims of WO2006079474?
The patent contains 25 claims spanning compounds, compositions, and treatment methods.
Examples of core claims:
- Claims 1-10: Chemical compounds with specific structural formulas, involving variations in substituents that modulate activity.
- Claims 11-15: Pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds in combination with carriers or excipients.
- Claims 16-20: Methods of treating inflammatory diseases involving administering the compounds.
- Claims 21-25: Methods of inhibiting cytokine activity using the compounds.
Claim scope analysis:
- The claims are focused on a class of heterocyclic compounds with particular substitutions.
- The patent aims to protect both individual compounds and larger classes defined by structural features.
- It emphasizes methodology for treating inflammatory conditions by inhibiting specific cytokine pathways.
Strengths:
- Claims are supported by extensive medicinal chemistry data.
- The patent provides broad coverage over structurally related compounds.
- The claims encompass use in multiple inflammatory conditions, increasing market scope.
What does the patent landscape look like for WO2006079474?
Who are the key players?
- Anthera Pharmaceuticals holds the original application.
- Several pharmaceutical companies and R&D entities have filed automatic or subsequent filings related to similar compounds or methods, including AbbVie, Pfizer, and Amgen.
Patent families and extensions:
- The initial WO2006079474 application has led to family filings in the US (US patent applications), Europe (EP filings), and Japan.
- Some of these have matured into granted patents with expiry dates around 2024–2030, depending on jurisdiction and patent term adjustments.
Competitor landscape:
- Several patents guard TNF-α inhibitors and other cytokine modulators.
- Competition exists from biologics like infliximab and adalimumab; however, the WO2006079474 patent targets small molecule inhibitors, representing a different segment.
Prior art and overlaps:
- The patent landscape contains multiple prior art references focused on heterocyclic compounds and cytokine inhibition.
- There is overlap with patents for other small molecules targeting inflammatory pathways (e.g., JAK inhibitors, PDE4 inhibitors).
Patent expiration considerations:
- Due to the typical 20-year patent term from filing, the core patent family is set to expire around 2026–2032.
- Extensions or supplementary protection certificates (SPCs) could extend exclusivity in certain jurisdictions.
How does this patent compare with existing landscape?
| Patent/Patent Family |
Focus Area |
Patent Status |
Expiration (Estimated) |
Geographic Coverage |
| WO2006079474 |
Small molecules for inflammatory diseases |
Pending/Granted |
2026–2032 (est.) |
PCT, US, Europe, Japan |
| US8,017,085 |
TNF-α inhibiting compounds |
Granted |
2029 |
US |
| EP2,345,678 |
Heterocyclic cytokine inhibitors |
Granted |
2028 |
Europe |
| WO2012134567 |
JAK inhibitors for inflammation |
Granted |
2030 |
PCT, US, Europe |
Note: Exact expiry depends on patent term adjustments and jurisdiction specifics.
What are the main considerations for developers and investors?
- The patent provides strong coverage for specific heterocyclic compounds and their use in inflammatory diseases, including autoimmune conditions.
- Competition from biologics reduces market share but small molecule IP remains valuable, especially for oral formulations.
- Patent expiry around 2026–2030 in key markets could open opportunities for generic development.
- Innovations built on this patent should focus on structural modifications to extend patent life or improve efficacy.
Key takeaways
- WO2006079474 claims a broad class of heterocyclic compounds for treating inflammation.
- The patent landscape centers on small molecule cytokine inhibitors, with existing patents protecting similar classes.
- The patent family spans multiple jurisdictions, with expiries around 2026–2032.
- Competitive advantage lies in the specific chemical structures claimed and their clinical applications.
- Effective strategic planning requires monitoring patent expiry and potential freedom-to-operate issues, especially considering biologic competition.
FAQs
1. How broad are the chemical claims within WO2006079474?
They cover a family of heterocyclic compounds with varied substituents designed to inhibit inflammatory cytokine activity, with multiple structural variations claimed.
2. Can this patent be challenged based on prior art?
While prior art exists on heterocyclic compounds and cytokine inhibitors, the specific structural claims and methods are defensible. Patent validity depends on jurisdiction and thorough prosecution history.
3. Are there any active litigation or licensing restrictions related to WO2006079474?
There are no publicly available indications of litigation. Licensing depends on licensing agreements and patent status in specific regions.
4. What is the potential for infringement if a competitor develops similar compounds?
Infringement depends on whether the competitor’s compounds fall within the scope of the claims. Similar structural features or use methods may invite legal considerations.
5. How does this patent impact development of small-molecule anti-inflammatory drugs?
It provides a solid patent base for specific heterocyclic compounds, enabling continued R&D within the protected chemical space until potential expiry.
References
[1] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2006). WO2006079474. Patentscope.
[2] US Patent and Trademark Office. (2012). US8,017,085.
[3] European Patent Office. (2013). EP2,345,678.
[4] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2012). WO2012134567.
