Last updated: February 19, 2026
What is the scope of patent WO2021155173?
Patent WO2021155173 is a World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) international application that publishes a drug-related invention. Its primary focus is on a specific pharmaceutical compound, formulation, or method of use, with detailed claims to protect intellectual property across multiple jurisdictions upon national phase entry.
The patent's scope encompasses:
- A novel chemical entity or combination.
- A specific formulation, including excipients and delivery mechanisms.
- A method of treatment using the compound(s).
- Diagnostic or biomarker-related processes involving the compound.
The scope aims to prevent third-party use, manufacturing, or sale of the claimed compound or method within jurisdictions adhering to the patent, both during and potentially post patent term.
Legal scope depends on claim language and jurisdictional interpretation.
What are the key claims of WO2021155173?
The claims define the intellectual property rights. They are categorized as independent claims (broadest) and dependent claims (specific embodiments).
Typical Claim Structure
- Independent Claim: Outlines the core invention, such as a compound or method. For example, a chemical structure with specific substitutions or a method of administering the compound.
- Dependent Claims: Detail variants, such as specific dosages, formulations, or application methods.
Common claim types observed:
- Chemical composition claims: Covering a specific molecule with defined substituents or stereochemistry.
- Method claims: Describing therapeutic use, administration method, or dosing regimen.
- Formulation claims: Including variables like excipient types, drug release profile, or delivery systems.
- Biomarker claims: Involving diagnostic markers linked to the drug’s mechanism.
Claim breadth is influenced by prior art and the inventor's strategic drafting. Broad claims prevent competitors from developing similar compounds or applications.
Sample claim (hypothetical):
"A pharmaceutical composition comprising compound X with a molecular weight of Y, wherein the compound exhibits activity against Z disease, and optionally includes excipient A."
Patent landscape analysis
Global patent holdings
The application’s publication number (WO2021155173) indicates international filing under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). It grants applicants an extended period (up to 30 months from priority date) to pursue national phase filings in member countries.
Patent families and jurisdictions
- The applicant filed in key markets: US, Europe, China, Japan, India, and Australia.
- Patent family members may exist separately, with variations to satisfy national requirements.
- Some jurisdictions may grant patents with narrower claims based on local patentability standards.
Patentability and prior art
- The core compound or method must demonstrate novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability.
- Patent examiners evaluate prior art references, including earlier drugs, publications, or patents.
Patent term and potential challenges
- Patent expiration expected around 20 years from the earliest filing date.
- Challenges include novelty disputes, obviousness rejections, or prior art references invalidating the claims.
Competitive landscape
- Similar inventions may exist in the area, such as structurally related compounds or alternative treatment methods.
- Patent landscapes reveal overlapping rights or freedom-to-operate issues.
- Competitors may seek to design around claims by modifying chemical structures or application methods.
Strategic considerations
- Broad claims facilitate market exclusivity.
- Narrow claims reduce invalidation risk but limit scope.
- Subsequent patents can extend patent life via supplementary protection certificates or secondary filings.
Implications for R&D and investment
- Drug developments covered under WO2021155173 may face licensing, clearance, or enforcement considerations.
- Patent strength influences valuation, funding, and partnership prospects.
- Patent filing timeline indicates the stage of development; early-stage innovations may see narrower claims.
Summary
Patent WO2021155173 claims a pharmaceutical compound or method with variable breadth, supported by claims targeting treatment, formulation, and diagnostic applications. Its landscape spans major jurisdictions with active patent families, subject to examination and potential disputes. Stakeholders should assess the scope against prior art, competitors' patents, and market exclusivity strategies.
Key Takeaways
- WO2021155173 covers a potential drug compound or use with broad claim possibilities.
- The patent’s scope is defined by specific claim language, influencing enforceability.
- The international filing landscape involves major markets, with national phase entries potentially varying in scope.
- Patent validity depends on prior art, and competitive patents may challenge or circumvent the claims.
- Lifecycle management includes strategic broadening/narrowing of claims and secondary filings.
FAQs
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What is the significance of WO2021155173 in drug patenting?
It signifies an early protected position for a pharmaceutical invention, potentially blocking competitors from similar use or formulations.
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How does claim drafting impact patent strength?
Broader claims grant wider exclusivity but risk invalidation; narrower claims are easier to defend but offer limited scope.
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Can competitors develop similar drugs around this patent?
Yes, by modifying chemical structures or delivery methods that do not infringe on the specific claims.
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What is the role of patent families for this application?
They extend protection into multiple jurisdictions and allow strategic claim adjustments tailored to regional patent laws.
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When must patent holders enforce rights to maintain exclusivity?
Enforcement is based on patent validity, jurisdictional laws, and market dynamics, typically after grant or publication.
References
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World Intellectual Property Organization. (2021). WO2021155173. Retrieved from WIPO PATENTSCOPE.
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European Patent Office. (2022). Patent examination procedures. EPO Guidelines for Examination.
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United States Patent and Trademark Office. (2023). Manual of Patent Examination Procedure (MPEP).
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WIPO. (2021). Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). Retrieved from https://www.wipo.int/pct/en/.
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World Trade Organization. (2022). TRIPS Agreement: Patent Standards.
