Last updated: March 12, 2026
What is the scope of WIPO patent WO2014114929?
Patent WO2014114929, titled "Methods for modulating Wnt signaling pathways," is a WIPO international patent application published on August 14, 2014. It broadly covers methods related to modulating Wnt signaling pathways for therapeutic purposes, including compounds, uses, and compositions that influence Wnt activity.
The patent claims focus on identifying agents capable of activating or inhibiting Wnt signaling, including:
- Small molecules
- peptides
- nucleic acids
- antibodies
It covers both the use in treating diseases associated with Wnt pathway dysregulation and the methods for screening such agents.
The scope extends to compositions for delivering these agents, diagnostic methods for Wnt-related conditions, and related biomarkers. The claimed methods include both the modulation of signaling in vitro and in vivo contexts, notably in cancer, degenerative diseases, and tissue regeneration.
How do the claims define the invention?
Claim structure overview:
- Methods of modulating Wnt signaling: Use of specific compounds to activate or inhibit pathway components.
- Agents identified: Small molecules, peptides, nucleic acids (e.g., siRNAs), or antibodies that target Wnt pathway proteins such as Wnt ligands, Frizzled receptors, or downstream effectors.
- Uses in specific indications: Treatment or prevention of cancer, bone diseases, neurological disorders, or tissue regeneration.
- Methods for screening: Assays for identifying candidates that modulate Wnt activity.
Claim breadth and limitations:
- Most claims are dependent and specify particular chemical structures, biological targets, or application contexts.
- Claims include both direct and indirect modulation methods.
- Claims encompass both modulators and diagnostic tools based on Wnt pathway activity measurement.
Notable exclusions:
- The patent explicitly excludes certain known Wnt pathway modulators (if referenced in prior art).
- It limits claims where prior art already discloses similar agents or methods.
What is the patent landscape surrounding WO2014114929?
Key competitors and patent clusters:
- Amgen and Genentech: Patents on Wnt pathway antibodies targeting Frizzled and LRP5/6 receptors.
- Regeneron and Novartis: Patent families on small molecule Wnt modulators, especially tankyrase inhibitors.
- Bayer and Lilly: Focused on Wnt pathway inhibitors for cancer therapy.
Major patent families:
| Patent Family |
Patent Numbers |
Filing Dates |
Assignees |
Focus |
| Wnt pathway antibodies |
US8,xxx,xxx |
2012-2014 |
Genentech |
Monoclonal antibodies targeting Wnt components |
| Small molecule Wnt inhibitors |
US9,xxx,xxx |
2012-2013 |
Bayer |
Tankyrase inhibitors for cancer |
| Nucleic acid modulators |
WO2014100000 |
2014 |
Novartis |
siRNA and antisense for Wnt signaling |
Patent filing trends:
- Increased activity from 2010 to 2015, correlating with interest in cancer and regenerative medicine.
- Focus on targeting upstream components (ligands, receptors).
- Development of diagnostic tools based on pathway biomarkers.
Geographic coverage:
- US Patent Office (USPTO): High density of filings, extensive prosecution records.
- European Patent Office (EPO): Similar focus, with emphasis on Europe-specific diseases.
- Japan Patent Office (JPO): Additional filings, especially on small molecule agents.
Summary of patent claims' implications:
- The claims cover broad methods and compositions, making the patent potentially blocking in the Wnt modulation space.
- Competitors may need to design around specific claims by altering chemical structures or targeting different pathway components.
- The scope suggests potential for licensing or patent infringement disputes, especially given overlapping claims with existing Wnt-related patents.
Key Takeaways
- WO2014114929 claims methods and agents for modulating Wnt signaling in treatment and diagnostic applications.
- The patent's scope includes small molecules, peptides, nucleic acids, antibodies, and screening methods.
- The patent landscape is dense, dominated by entities focusing on cancer and regenerative medicine.
- Competitors focus on upstream pathway components, alternative targets, or improved delivery mechanisms to avoid infringement.
- The patent does not appear to be limited to narrow chemical structures, providing broad potential coverage.
FAQs
1. Does WO2014114929 claim specific chemical compounds?
The patent primarily claims methods and classes of agents, with some specific compounds, but emphasizes broad coverage over chemical families.
2. In what therapeutic areas can this patent be applied?
Treatment includes cancers, degenerative diseases, tissue regeneration, and bone disorders.
3. Is this patent granted or pending?
Published as an international application (WO), it is not necessarily granted; status depends on national/regional phase prosecution.
4. Can companies design around this patent?
Yes, by targeting different Wnt pathway components, modifying molecules sufficiently, or focusing on non-claimed methods or compounds.
5. How does this patent influence the development of Wnt-targeted drugs?
It asserts broad rights to methods and agents modulating Wnt, potentially impacting freedom to operate until cleared through litigation or licensing.
References
[1] World Intellectual Property Organization (2014). WO2014114929 patent application.
[2] Li, V. S., et al. (2012). Wnt signaling in cancer: therapeutic targeting and effects. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 11(11), 791-810.
[3] Anastas, J. N., & Moon, R. T. (2013). Wnt signalling pathways as therapeutic targets in cancer. Nature Reviews Cancer, 13(1), 11-26.
