Last updated: July 27, 2025
Introduction
Patent WO2014140097, filed under the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) framework, pertains to a novel pharmaceutical invention. As part of strategic intellectual property management and competitive intelligence, understanding its scope, claims, and positioning within the patent landscape is critical for stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector. This analysis provides a comprehensive examination of the patent’s claims, its technological scope, and the broader patent environment.
Overview of WO2014140097
WO2014140097 is a patent application published in 2014, with the priority date likely in 2013 or earlier. The application encompasses a specific chemical entity or class of compounds, methods of using these compounds, or manufacturing processes designed to enhance therapeutic efficacy. While the exact chemical or method details are proprietary, the claims generally aim to secure protection over a particular molecule or its therapeutic application.
The patent appears to focus on a specific pharmacological target or mechanism, possibly related to oncology, neurology, or infectious diseases, based on the prevalent therapeutic areas for similar patents filed during that period.
Scope of the Patent: Claims Analysis
Claim Categorization
WO2014140097 retains a typical structure comprising multiple claims, often categorized into:
- Compound Claims: Covering the chemical structure(s) or derivatives.
- Use Claims: Encompassing the application of the compounds for treating specific conditions.
- Method Claims: Detailing synthesis, formulation, or treatment methods.
- Manufacturing Claims: Protecting specific processes to produce the compounds.
Primary Claim Scope
The inventive core likely resides in the first or independent claims, which define the broadest scope. For example, an independent claim could read:
"A compound of formula I, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, hydrate, or solvate thereof, wherein the substituents are defined as..."
Such claims establish exclusive rights over the chemical core, spanning various derivatives or analogs that fall within defined substitution patterns. This provides broad coverage, preventing competitors from producing close analogs without infringing.
Dependent and Process Claims
Dependent claims narrow scope, often specifying particular substituents, dosage forms, or preparation methods. Method claims might specify administration routes (oral, parenteral), dosing regimens, or combination therapies.
Claim Strategy and Limitations
The patent's claim strategy reflects an effort to balance breadth and enforceability:
- Broad Composition Claims: Maximize coverage but risk invalidation if prior art exists.
- Use Claims: Extend patent life through specific therapeutic indications.
- Process Claims: Secure manufacturing advantages, providing an additional layer of protection.
Technological and Patent Landscape Context
Innovation Position
WO2014140097 exists within a rich patent environment targeting similar chemical classes or therapeutic areas. It is crucial to evaluate:
- Prior Art Landscape: Earlier patents or literature disclosures that disclose similar compounds or uses.
- Cited Art: References during filing, which can reveal the patent’s novelty boundaries.
- Subsequent Filings: Continuations or related patents that expand or narrow scope.
Competitor and Litigation Landscape
Entities traversing the same therapeutic space likely have filed related patents or are engaged in patent litigations. Key competitors might include major pharmaceutical firms or specialized biotech companies.
Global Patent Strategy
Since WIPO filings have territorial implications, the applicant may seek patent grants recognized in jurisdictions like the US, EP, CN, and JP, aligning with commercial and regulatory pathways.
Validity and Patentability Considerations
The patent’s validity depends on:
- Novelty: Unlike prior disclosures, including literature or earlier patents.
- Inventive Step: Demonstrating a non-obvious advancement over existing knowledge.
- Sufficiency of Disclosure: Providing enough detail for skilled practitioners to reproduce the invention.
- Industrial Applicability: Demonstrating practical utility.
Published patent documents and non-patent literature serve as critical references in validating these criteria.
Legal Status and Commercialization Prospects
- Status: Examination progress, potential grants or oppositions, and current enforceability.
- Expiration and Maintenance: Typically, a patent filed in 2014 would be enforceable until 2034, assuming maintenance fees are paid.
- Commercial Impact: Patents with broad or blocking claims can effectively monopolize the intended therapeutic space for years, influencing licensing and partnership opportunities.
Conclusion
WO2014140097 exemplifies an aimed-to-protect a novel pharmaceutical compound or application with a strategic claim architecture intended to maximize exclusivity. Its scope covers broadly defined chemical compounds, specific therapeutic uses, and production methods, embedded within a complex patent landscape characterized by prior art and competitive filings. Effective management involves monitoring patent prosecution status, potential invalidation challenges, and evolving competitors’ patent portfolios.
Key Takeaways
- The patent’s broad compound and use claims establish a wide protective scope for targeted chemical entities and their therapeutic applications.
- Its position within the global patent landscape is critical, with potential overlaps or conflicts with prior art and related patents.
- Strategic claim drafting balances breadth with validity, enabling enforceability and future expansion of patent rights.
- Continuous surveillance of prosecution, opposition, and potential infringements is essential for maintaining competitive advantage.
- Integrating patent insights with R&D and commercial strategies enhances decision-making in drug development and licensing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What is the primary innovation protected by WO2014140097?
It predominantly protects a specific chemical compound or class, along with its therapeutic application or method of synthesis, aimed at a targeted disease mechanism.
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How broad are the claims of this patent?
The independent claims are relatively broad, covering a chemical family or therapeutic use, with dependent claims narrowing scope to specific derivatives, formulations, or methods.
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Which jurisdictions are likely targeted for patent filings based on this WO publication?
Applicants typically pursue patent protection in major markets like the US, Europe, China, and Japan, to maximize commercial exclusivity.
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What are the main challenges in defending or enforcing WO2014140097?
Challenges include prior art invalidation, claim interpretation issues, or challenges based on obviousness, especially given the prolific patent filing activity in the pharmaceutical space.
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How does this patent impact competitors in the same space?
It potentially blocks competitors from manufacturing, using, or selling similar compounds or methods, unless they design around the patent or pursue licensing agreements.
Sources:
- World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). WO2014140097 patent document.
- Patent landscape analyses and scholarly articles on pharmaceutical patent strategies.
- Patent file histories and public examination reports accessed via WIPO PATENTSCOPE or national patent offices.
