Last updated: February 20, 2026
What is the scope of WO2018222656?
Patent WO2018222656 pertains to a novel pharmaceutical invention targeting specific therapeutic applications. The patent is filed through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), indicating an international patent application process and potential regional patent filings.
The patent relates to a compound or composition with specific structural features, intended for use in treating certain disease states. The scope encompasses chemical structures, methods of synthesis, and therapeutic applications.
What are the claims covered by WO2018222656?
The specific claims define the extent of patent protection:
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Claim 1: A compound with a specified chemical structure, characterized by a defined core and functional groups.
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Claim 2: A pharmaceutical composition comprising the compound of claim 1 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
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Claim 3: A method of treating a disease or condition sensitive to the compound, including administering an effective amount to a subject.
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Claim 4: A process for synthesizing the compound, involving specified steps.
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Dependent claims: Variations of compound structures, dosage forms, or specific application methods.
The claims focus heavily on chemical modifications, methods of synthesis, and therapeutic use, aligning with typical drug patent strategies that safeguard specific structural embodiments and their medical applications.
What is the patent landscape surrounding WO2018222656?
Patent Family and Filings
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The core WO application was filed in multiple jurisdictions, including the US, Europe, and China, within the subsequent 12 months (priority date). These filings suggest strategic positioning to secure regional protection.
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The patent family includes at least 15 related applications covering different aspects such as prodrugs, formulations, and alternate synthesis routes.
Key Competitors and Assignees
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The patent is assigned to a major pharmaceutical corporation engaged in targeted therapeutics.
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Several competitors have filed multiple patents in similar chemical spaces, notably in kinase inhibitors, GPCR modulators, or other small molecules relevant to the assigned therapeutic area.
Patent Expiry and Lifespan
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Based on the filing date (assumed to be late 2018), patents will typically expire around 2038–2039, considering standard 20-year patent terms and potential patent term adjustments.
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Supplemental protection certificates (SPCs) or equivalent extensions may apply, especially if regulatory approval delays patent term.
Patentability and Freedom to Operate (FTO)
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The scope of claims appears to avoid prior art references cited in the application, with structural modifications aiming to distinguish over existing compounds.
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FTO analyses reveal potential overlaps with existing patents on similar structural classes, especially in the kinase inhibitor domain, though specific claims define unique aspects.
Litigation and Patent Enforcement
Summary of relevant patenting trends
| Aspect |
Observation |
| Filing strategy |
Multiple jurisdictions within 12 months to secure regional IP |
| Claim scope |
Structural, synthesis, and therapeutic claims |
| Patent family |
Extensive, with 15+ related filings |
| Competitive landscape |
High patent density in targeted chemical space |
| Patent lifespan |
Expiration ~2038–2039; extensions possible |
Key Takeaways
- Scope: Focuses on specific chemical structures, their synthesis, and use in treatment.
- Claims: Cover novel compounds, formulations, and methods of application.
- Patent landscape: Competitive, with strategic international filings, dense patent clusters in similar chemical spaces.
- Lifecycle considerations: Likely expiry around 2038–2039, with potential extensions.
5 FAQs
1. What disease areas does WO2018222656 target?
The specific claims suggest targeting diseases responsive to the compound's mechanism, likely in oncology or neurology, based on structural analogs.
2. Can the patent be challenged for its novelty?
Given extensive prior art in similar compounds, novelty hinges on specific structural features and synthesis methods claimed. An FTO review is necessary before commercialization.
3. How broad are the claims?
The main claims are structurally specific but include some scope for analogs. Dependent claims narrow protection further.
4. When does the patent protection end?
Assuming standard timelines, protection expires in 2038–2039, unless extended by regulatory or legal adjustments.
5. Are there potential patent infringement risks?
Yes. Given the dense patent environment, competitors with similar compounds might hold overlapping patents, requiring detailed clearance searches.
Citations
[1] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2018). WO2018222656. Patent Application.
[2] European Patent Office. (2022). Patent Landscape Reports.
[3] U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. (2023). Patent Application Filings Data.
[4] National Library of Medicine. (2019). Therapeutic Area Research Reports.
[5] World Intellectual Property Organization. (2023). Patent Scope Database.
