News

Reference Numerals Can Affect Claim Construction

In an application to revoke EP(UK)1355604 a key question to be answered was the meaning in the claims of the terms “vent sites” and “bond sites”. Both terms were used interchangeably in the associated patent specification and both terms were given the same reference numeral 100.

Still Painful for Pfizer

The Court of Appeal has handed down its decision in the patent dispute relating to Pfizer’s $5 billion drug Lyrica® and its prescribed use to treat neuropathic pain. In summary, the Court of Appeal upheld the first instance decision, maintaining the finding of insufficiency and non-infringement. A finding that Pfizer was liable for making groundless threats was also upheld. Pfizer has indicated that it will seek leave to appeal to the UK Supreme Court.

Cell & Gene Meeting on the Mesa, 4 - 6 October, San Diego

UK Court Decision Kills Keepalive Patent

UK Court Decision Kills Keepalive Patent: In its Judgment on the dispute between Sony Communications and SSH Communications the UK High Court has deemed invalid patent EP(UK) 2254311 which relates to the use of keepalive packets.

SIPO Formalises Revisions to its Patent Examination Guidelines

All-Energy® 2017, Glasgow

Unified Patent Court – December Launch Date?

Upcoming Changes to the UK Patent Rules

Forthcoming amendments of the UK Patents Rules 2007 will have an impact on patent practice in front of the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO). The majority of these changes come into effect on 1 October 2016, whilst additional changes come into effect on 6 April 2017.

Accelerating Immunotherapy US Patent Prosecution

29 June 2016, the US Patent Office announced a Pilot Program for Cancer Immunotherapy aimed at accelerating prosecution and grant of cancer immunotherapy patent applications.