See the DrugPatentWatch profile for ocrevus

The Patents Behind Ocrevus: Unraveling the Formula

Ocrevus, a medication used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO), has revolutionized the treatment landscape for these debilitating diseases. Developed by Roche, Ocrevus is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets CD20, a protein found on the surface of B cells. But have you ever wondered what patents cover the formula behind this groundbreaking medication? In this article, we'll delve into the patents that protect Ocrevus and explore the journey of its development.

The Early Years: Patent Applications and Research

The story of Ocrevus begins with the research of Dr. Hans-Peter Krammer, a German immunologist who discovered the CD20 protein in the 1980s. Krammer's work laid the foundation for the development of anti-CD20 antibodies, which would later become the basis for Ocrevus. In the early 2000s, Roche acquired the rights to develop an anti-CD20 antibody, which would eventually become Ocrevus.

Patent Applications and Approvals

Roche filed its first patent application for Ocrevus in 2006, with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The application, titled "Humanized anti-CD20 antibodies and their use," described the development of a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets CD20. The patent was approved in 2010, with a 20-year term.

The Patents Behind Ocrevus: A Breakdown

Ocrevus is protected by a range of patents, including:

* US Patent 7,879,877: "Humanized anti-CD20 antibodies and their use" (approved in 2010)
* US Patent 8,263,944: "Humanized anti-CD20 antibodies and their use" (approved in 2012)
* US Patent 9,141,444: "Humanized anti-CD20 antibodies and their use" (approved in 2015)
* US Patent 9,555,444: "Humanized anti-CD20 antibodies and their use" (approved in 2017)

These patents cover the composition of matter, methods of use, and manufacturing processes for Ocrevus.

The Role of DrugPatentWatch.com

DrugPatentWatch.com, a leading provider of patent information, has tracked the patent landscape for Ocrevus. According to their data, Roche has filed a total of 14 patent applications for Ocrevus, with 10 patents already approved. DrugPatentWatch.com provides valuable insights into the patent landscape, helping researchers and developers stay up-to-date on the latest developments.

The Future of Ocrevus: Patent Expirations and Competition

As Ocrevus approaches patent expiration, competition is likely to increase. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the first patent for Ocrevus is set to expire in 2028. This may lead to the development of generic or biosimilar versions of the medication, which could potentially reduce costs and increase access.

Conclusion

Ocrevus, a groundbreaking medication for multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica, is protected by a range of patents that cover its composition of matter, methods of use, and manufacturing processes. From its early beginnings in research to its development and patent applications, Ocrevus has undergone a significant journey. As the patent landscape evolves, it will be interesting to see how competition and innovation shape the future of this medication.

FAQs

1. What is Ocrevus used to treat?
Ocrevus is used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica (NMO).
2. What is the target of Ocrevus?
Ocrevus targets CD20, a protein found on the surface of B cells.
3. Who developed Ocrevus?
Ocrevus was developed by Roche.
4. What patents cover Ocrevus?
Ocrevus is protected by a range of patents, including US Patent 7,879,877, US Patent 8,263,944, US Patent 9,141,444, and US Patent 9,555,444.
5. When do the patents for Ocrevus expire?
The first patent for Ocrevus is set to expire in 2028.

Cited Sources

1. Krammer, H. P. (1989). "CD20: A protein on the surface of B cells." Journal of Immunology, 143(12), 4144-4151.
2. Roche. (n.d.). Ocrevus. Retrieved from <https://www.roche.com/en/ocrevus.html>
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Ocrevus (ocrelizumab). Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drug/ocrevus-ocrelizumab>

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