Patent: 10,906,986

Summary for Patent: 10,906,986

Title:	Prevention of disulfide bond reduction during recombinant production of polypeptides
Abstract:	Provided herein are methods for preventing the reduction of disulfide bonds during the recombinant production of disulfide-containing polypeptides. In particular, the invention concerns the prevention of disulfide bond reduction during harvesting of disulfide-containing polypeptides, including antibodies, from recombinant host cell cultures.
Inventor(s):	Kao Yung-Hsiang, Laird Michael W., Schmidt Melody Trexler, Wong Rita L., Hewitt Daniel P.
Assignee:	Genentech, Inc.
Application Number:	US16847317
Patent Claims:	see list of patent claims

Analyzing the Claims and Patent Landscape of United States Patent 10,906,986

Introduction

When analyzing a patent, particularly one like United States Patent 10,906,986, it is crucial to delve into the specifics of the claims, the broader patent landscape, and the implications of the patent in its respective field. This analysis will help in understanding the patent's significance, its potential impact, and how it fits into the existing technological and legal framework.

Understanding Patent Claims

Patent claims are the heart of any patent application, as they define the scope of the invention and what is protected by the patent. Here are some key points to consider:

Novelty, Inventive Step, and Industrial Application

For a patent to be granted, the invention must meet several criteria: it must be novel, involve an inventive step (or be non-obvious), and be capable of industrial application. The claims must clearly define the scope of the invention and be supported by the description provided in the patent application[4].

Claim Structure

The claims section of a patent application is typically divided into independent and dependent claims. Independent claims stand alone and define the invention, while dependent claims refer back to and further limit the independent claims. The clarity and specificity of these claims are critical in determining the patent's enforceability and the scope of protection it offers[4].

The Patent Landscape

The patent landscape refers to the existing body of patents and patent applications in a particular field of technology. Here’s how it relates to United States Patent 10,906,986:

Prior Art and Existing Patents

To understand the novelty and inventive step of the patent, it is essential to conduct a thorough search of prior art. This includes existing patents, publications, and other publicly available information that could affect the patentability of the invention. The patent office will conduct its own search, but applicants often perform preliminary searches to ensure their invention is novel[4].

Competitors and Market Impact

Analyzing the patent landscape helps in identifying competitors and understanding the market impact of the patented invention. For example, in fields like desalination technologies, a comprehensive patent landscape report can reveal patterns of innovation and the use of renewable energies, highlighting potential competitors and areas for further innovation[5].

Specific Analysis of United States Patent 10,906,986

Patent Details

To provide a detailed analysis, one would typically start by examining the patent's abstract, description, and claims. Here are some steps to follow:

• Abstract and Description: The abstract provides a brief summary of the invention, while the description gives a detailed explanation of how the invention works and its background.
• Claims: Analyze the independent and dependent claims to understand the scope of protection.
• Drawings and Diagrams: Visual materials can help clarify complex inventions.

Technical Field and Industrial Application

Identify the technical field in which the patent operates and assess its industrial application. For instance, if the patent is in the medical field, it must comply with specific regulations and guidelines, such as those outlined in the UK's Patents Act 1977 and its amendments[3].

Novelty and Inventive Step

Evaluate whether the patent meets the criteria of novelty and inventive step. This involves comparing the invention with prior art to ensure it introduces a new characteristic or an improvement that is not obvious to a person skilled in the relevant technical field[4].

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Patentability

Ensure the invention falls within the categories that are considered patentable under the relevant laws. For example, methods of medical treatment are generally not patentable, but materials or compositions used in such methods can be[3].

Fees and Timings

Understanding the costs and timelines associated with patent applications is crucial. For instance, in Australia, the process involves provisional and standard patent applications, each with its own set of fees and timelines[2].

Economic and Strategic Implications

Exclusive Rights and Licensing

Patents provide exclusive rights to the patent holder, allowing them to prevent others from commercially exploiting the invention for a specified period, usually 20 years from the filing date. This can be a significant strategic advantage, enabling the patent holder to establish market dominance and generate revenue through licensing or sale of the patent[4].

Innovation and Competition

The grant of a patent can also drive innovation by encouraging competitors to "invent around" the patented invention, leading to further advancements in the field. This public disclosure of technical knowledge can enhance the quality of life and societal well-being by fostering continuous innovation[4].

Challenges and Oppositions

Opposition Systems

Patents can be challenged through opposition systems provided by patent offices or in a court of law. Third parties may oppose the grant of a patent on grounds such as lack of novelty or inventive step. Understanding these procedures is essential for both patent applicants and potential challengers[4].

Re-examination Requests

In some cases, a third party or the patent holder themselves may request a re-examination of the patent. This process can lead to the patent being amended or even revoked if it does not meet the required standards[2].

Key Takeaways

• Patent Claims: The claims define the scope of protection and must be novel, involve an inventive step, and be capable of industrial application.
• Patent Landscape: Understanding the existing body of patents helps in identifying competitors and market opportunities.
• Legal Framework: The invention must comply with patentability criteria and regulatory guidelines.
• Economic Implications: Patents provide exclusive rights, drive innovation, and can be a significant strategic asset.
• Challenges and Oppositions: Patents can be challenged through opposition systems and re-examination requests.

FAQs

Q: What are the key criteria for a patent to be granted? A: A patent must be novel, involve an inventive step, be capable of industrial application, and its subject matter must be accepted as patentable under law[4].

Q: How long does patent protection typically last? A: Patent protection generally lasts for 20 years from the date of filing the patent application, provided that renewal fees are paid[4].

Q: Can methods of medical treatment be patented? A: No, methods of medical treatment are generally not patentable, but materials or compositions used in such methods can be patented[3].

Q: What is the purpose of a provisional patent application? A: A provisional patent application gives the earliest possible priority date and signals the intention to lodge a complete application in the near future[2].

Q: How can a patent be challenged? A: A patent can be challenged through opposition systems provided by patent offices or in a court of law on grounds such as lack of novelty or inventive step[4].

Sources

1. Patent Public Search - Log Manager. Close Clear. [Patent Public Search]
2. Patent Cost & Timings - Obtaining enforceable patent protection takes at least 6 months and can cost up to several thousand dollars. [Patent Cost & Timings]
3. Examination guidelines for patent applications relating to medical inventions - These guidelines set out the practice within the Intellectual Property Office as it relates to patent applications for medical inventions. [Examination guidelines for patent applications relating to medical inventions]
4. Frequently Asked Questions: Patents - Questions and answers on any and all aspects of patents. Covers applying, management, enforcement, and more. [Frequently Asked Questions: Patents]
5. Patent Landscape Report on Desalination Technologies and the Use of Alternative Energies for Desalination - This report identified 4551 patent families (including utility models) that claim inventions related to desalination of water. [Patent Landscape Report on Desalination Technologies and the Use of Alternative Energies for Desalination]

Details for Patent 10,906,986

Applicant	Tradename	Biologic Ingredient	Dosage Form	BLA	Approval Date	Patent No.	Expiredate
Genentech, Inc.	AVASTIN	bevacizumab	Injection	125085	February 26, 2004	10,906,986	2040-04-13