Understanding Patents and Patent Opportunities

Patent

An intangible asset.

What does a Patent Protect

A technical invention such as new molecules, salts, formulations, or methods of treatment.

Patent Duration

Up to 20 years.

is Patent a global Rights

it is a national right.

Criteria for Valid Patent

Industrial utility, adequate description, novelty, and inventiveness.

Novelty Invalidations

Public disclosure before the priority date, such as in a lecture or online post.

Golden Rule for Patent Opportunities

"A problem solved is often a patent opportunity."

Can an selling your invention to a company count as public disclosure

Yes, it can invalidate novelty.

What were two major formulation challenges in the case study

Extremely low aqueous solubility and high dose requirements.

What eventually worked as a solution in the case study?

An oil-based formulation with the 'magic ratio' of drug and solvents.

Why is it important not to file a patent claim too narrowly?

Because small tweaks could allow competitors to replicate without infringement.

Patent Claim Strategy

File a broad main claim, with narrower dependent claims for preferred formulations.

DO Before Publishing

Always consider patent opportunities.

DON'T Discuss Inventions

Don't publish or present information, and express written opinion about patentability.

which of the following wouldn't meet criteria for a patent

A known molecule used for a well-known indication.

3 multiple choice options

Explain why it's critical to avoid public disclosure before filing a patent

Public disclosure can invalidate the novelty of an invention, making it ineligible for patent protection.

How does the "magic ratio" concept in the injectable depot case study exemplify a patent opportunity?

It solved key formulation challenges, offering a novel, non-obvious solution that could be claimed in a patent.

You're working on a new oral formulation that masks the taste of a bitter API. Your supervisor wants to present it at a conference next week. What should you consider before allowing the presentation?

Check for patentability first—public presentation could constitute disclosure, voiding your chance to patent it.