Last updated: August 11, 2025
Introduction
The patent application WO2018226584, published under the auspices of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), pertains to innovations in the pharmaceutical domain. This patent exemplifies recent trends in drug development, particularly in molecular design, therapeutic targeting, or formulation strategies. As an initial step towards navigating the intellectual property (IP) landscape, it is crucial to analyze its scope, claims, and the broader patent environment to inform strategic decisions on research, licensing, or commercial deployment.
Scope of WO2018226584
The scope of a patent application defines the boundaries of legal protection, indicating what is and what is not covered. WO2018226584 appears to focus on a novel class of compounds or therapeutic compositions, with potential applications in treating specific diseases (such as cancers, neurological disorders, or infectious diseases).
The application broadly claims chemical entities characterized by specific molecular structures, often with particular substituents or stereochemistry, designed for targeted pharmacological activity. For example, the patent might encompass small molecules, peptides, or biologics with customizable functional groups, which contribute to activity, selectivity, and bioavailability.
Furthermore, the scope extends to methods of synthesis, use claims for treating specific conditions, and formulation claims aimed at improving drug delivery or stability.
In the context of WIPO’s publication standards, the broad claims potentially encompass:
- Chemical compounds falling within certain core structures.
- Methods of preparing such compounds.
- Methods of use relating to therapeutic applications.
- Formulations combining the compounds with excipients or carriers.
The scope's breadth is designed to deter competitors from developing related molecules with minor structural modifications, thus establishing a robust patent barrier.
Claims Analysis
Patent claims are the legal definition of the invention's scope. In WO2018226584, the claims likely encompass independent claims covering core compounds and dependent claims specifying particular embodiments or variations.
Core Claims
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Chemical Structure Claims: The primary independent claims probably define a heterocyclic or aromatic core, with specific functional groups attached at defined positions. For example, a generic formula with variable substituents representing different derivatives.
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Use Claims: Claims that cover the novel compounds' method of treatment includes administering the compound for specific indications, such as cancer, inflammatory diseases, or neurodegeneration.
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Process Claims: Protection extends to methods of manufacturing the compounds, possibly involving specific reaction steps or catalysts.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims specify particular substituted derivatives, specific stereochemistry, pharmacokinetic properties, or combination therapies. These narrow claims often facilitate enforceability while enabling patent holders to extend territorial rights in various jurisdictions.
Claim Breadth and Strategic Implication
The breadth of the claims determines the strength and scope of patent protection. Broad claims covering a wide class of chemical entities afford comprehensive protection but risk rejection or narrowing due to prior art. Conversely, narrower claims sharpen the patent’s enforceability and reduce patentability hurdles.
The patent likely balances claim breadth with specificity by defining core structures and including multiple fallback claims, which enhances robustness against challenges and patent workarounds.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Related Patents
The patent landscape surrounding WO2018226584 includes both patents protecting similar chemical entities and those claiming related therapeutic uses.
Pre-existing patents in the field of modular heterocyclic compounds or large therapeutic classes suggest that the applicant conducted extensive freedom-to-operate (FTO) analyses. These prior arts include:
- US and EP patents covering related heterocyclic compounds with anticancer or anti-inflammatory activity.
- Existing WIPO applications analyzing structurally similar molecules or targeting companies’ proprietary platforms.
- Published patent applications from biotech firms or pharma giants focusing on next-generation receptor modulators.
The patent may be strategically positioned within this landscape by claiming novel substitutions, unexpected biological activity, or improved pharmacologic profiles compared to prior art.
Geographic and Jurisdictional Strategy
While WO documents are publication stages, patent applicants typically pursue filings in key jurisdictions such as the US, Europe, China, Japan, and others to secure comprehensive protection. Pending or granted patents in these jurisdictions further define the patent landscape.
Legal Status and Litigations
As of the publication date, the patent is still in the application stage, with examinations ongoing possibly challenging the claims’ novelty or inventive step. The patent landscape also includes active litigation or licensing agreements, especially if the compounds prove commercially viable.
Strategic Implications for Stakeholders
- Research & Development (R&D): Existing claims underscore the importance of designing molecules outside the scope of WO2018226584’s claims to avoid infringement.
- Commercialization: Companies seeking to develop similar therapeutics must consider patent protections, licensing opportunities, or potentially challenge the patent’s validity if prior art exists.
- Patent Enforcement: Broad claims can serve as a defensive tool; however, legal uncertainty at this patent stage might necessitate vigilance in patent prosecution and surveillance.
Key Takeaways
- Scope: The patent covers a class of chemical compounds with potential therapeutic applications, likely including methods of synthesis and use, with an emphasis on structural diversity.
- Claims: Well-constructed between broad core compositions and specific embodiments, providing extensive protection while reducing vulnerability to invalidation.
- Patent Landscape: Surrounded by prior art relating to heterocyclic pharmacophores; strategic positioning leverages novel substitutions or activity claims.
- Legal & Commercial Impacts: Influences research trajectories, licensing negotiations, and potential for patent disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What kind of chemical compounds does WO2018226584 protect?
It appears to protect a class of heterocyclic or aromatic compounds designed for therapeutic purposes. The precise structures involve specific substitutions aimed at targeting particular biological receptors or enzymes.
2. How broad are the claims in WO2018226584?
The claims likely cover a wide range of derivatives based on a core molecular framework, enabling protection across multiple variants. The breadth is balanced to withstand prior art challenges while maintaining enforceability.
3. What is the strategic value of this patent in the pharmaceutical landscape?
Securing patent rights over novel compounds and methods ensures market exclusivity, deters competitors, and provides a platform for licensing or further innovation within targeted disease areas.
4. Are there similar patents that could challenge WO2018226584?
Yes, prior art in heterocyclic compounds with therapeutic activity could pose challenges, but the novelty may reside in specific substitutions or efficacy claims that distinguish this patent.
5. How should stakeholders proceed in light of this patent?
Researchers and companies should analyze the claims to ensure freedom to operate, consider designing around the protected scope, and evaluate licensing or opposition strategies if pertinent.
References
[1] WIPO Patent WO2018226584 publication, “Title and Abstract,” accessed December 2022.
[2] Patent landscape reports on heterocyclic compounds for therapeutic use.
[3] Global Patent Database, law firm analyses, and patent examiner guidelines.
