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Global patent landscape of programmed cell death 1: implications of the rapid expansion
Xiangjun Kong1, Qianru Zhang1,2, Yunfeng Lai1
1a Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine , University of Macau , Macao , China.
Introduction:
Inhibitors of programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and its ligands are producing a paradigm shift in cancer treatment. The promising clinical outcomes and a multi-billion dollar market have prompted active research and development and resulted in relentless patent protection. However, the global patent landscape in this field remains unclear.
Areas Covered:
The patent landscape encompassing global patenting activities and developing trends in the field is discussed based on a data set of 1287 patent families. Patenting activities have expanded rapidly in the past three years. Specific trends in relevant aspects are presented, including patent filing countries, patent ownership, co-patents, technical areas, and technological connections in terms of patent citation relationships.
Expert Opinion:
Together with patenting momentum in recent years, fragmented ownership and dense technological connections of PD-1-related inventions raise the possibility of a patent thicket. The explosion of patent applications and complex citation relationships could also lead to considerable patent conflicts and disputes on overlapping intellectual property rights, in addition to existing legal uncertainties. Patent applicants in this field are encouraged to be aware of these concerns when developing valid patent strategies.
Insights
The global patent landscape for programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors is complex and rapidly evolving. Understanding this patent thicket is crucial for navigating intellectual property rights in cancer treatment development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Intellectual Property Law
Background:
- Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors represent a significant advancement in cancer therapy.
- The multi-billion dollar market and clinical success drive intense research and patent protection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the global patent landscape for PD-1 inhibitors.
- To identify trends and potential challenges in patenting related to PD-1 therapies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 1287 patent families.
- Examination of global patenting activities and trends.
- Assessment of patent filing countries, ownership, co-patents, technical areas, and citation relationships.
Main Results:
- Rapid expansion of patenting activities in recent years.
- Fragmented ownership and dense technological interconnections observed.
- Complex citation relationships indicate potential for patent conflicts.
Conclusions:
- The PD-1 inhibitor field presents a potential patent thicket due to fragmented ownership and complex interdependencies.
- Patent applicants must be aware of legal uncertainties and potential disputes.
- Strategic patent development is essential for navigating this evolving landscape.
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