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The Patent Owner of Keytruda: Unraveling the Complexities

Keytruda, a revolutionary immunotherapy medication, has been a game-changer in the treatment of various types of cancer. But have you ever wondered who owns the patent for this life-saving drug? In this article, we'll delve into the world of patent law and explore the complex ownership structure of Keytruda.

What is Keytruda?

Before we dive into the patent ownership, let's briefly discuss what Keytruda is. Keytruda, also known as pembrolizumab, is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking the PD-1 receptor on immune cells, allowing them to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. It was developed by Merck & Co., Inc. and has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of various types of cancer, including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, and classical Hodgkin lymphoma.

The Patent Landscape of Keytruda

Keytruda's patent landscape is complex, with multiple patents filed and granted by various entities. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a leading provider of patent data and analytics, Keytruda has a total of 144 patents filed and 64 patents granted worldwide. These patents cover various aspects of the drug, including its composition, method of use, and manufacturing process.

Who Owns the Patent for Keytruda?

So, who owns the patent for Keytruda? The answer is not straightforward. Merck & Co., Inc. is the original developer and manufacturer of Keytruda, and they hold the majority of the patents related to the drug. However, there are other entities that have also filed patents related to Keytruda, including the University of Pennsylvania, the National Institutes of Health, and other research institutions.

The University of Pennsylvania's Role

The University of Pennsylvania has played a significant role in the development of Keytruda. In 2014, the university filed a patent application for a method of using pembrolizumab to treat cancer, which was later granted in 2017. This patent is owned by the University of Pennsylvania and is exclusively licensed to Merck & Co., Inc.

The National Institutes of Health's Role

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has also been involved in the development of Keytruda. In 2011, the NIH filed a patent application for a method of using pembrolizumab to treat cancer, which was later granted in 2015. This patent is owned by the NIH and is licensed to Merck & Co., Inc.

Other Patent Holders

In addition to Merck & Co., Inc., the University of Pennsylvania, and the NIH, there are other entities that hold patents related to Keytruda. These include research institutions, biotechnology companies, and pharmaceutical companies. For example, Bristol-Myers Squibb has filed patents related to the use of pembrolizumab in combination with other cancer therapies.

The Impact of Patent Expirations

As patents expire, the exclusivity period for Keytruda comes to an end, allowing other companies to develop and market generic versions of the drug. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the patent for Keytruda's original formulation is set to expire in 2028. However, Merck & Co., Inc. has filed patent applications for new formulations and methods of use, which are expected to extend the patent life of Keytruda.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the patent ownership of Keytruda is complex and involves multiple entities. Merck & Co., Inc. is the original developer and manufacturer of the drug, and they hold the majority of the patents related to Keytruda. However, other entities, including the University of Pennsylvania, the National Institutes of Health, and research institutions, also hold patents related to the drug. As patents expire, the exclusivity period for Keytruda comes to an end, allowing other companies to develop and market generic versions of the drug.

Key Takeaways

* Keytruda is a revolutionary immunotherapy medication developed by Merck & Co., Inc.
* The patent ownership of Keytruda is complex and involves multiple entities.
* Merck & Co., Inc. holds the majority of the patents related to Keytruda.
* The University of Pennsylvania and the National Institutes of Health also hold patents related to the drug.
* As patents expire, the exclusivity period for Keytruda comes to an end, allowing other companies to develop and market generic versions of the drug.

FAQs

Q: Who is the original developer of Keytruda?
A: Merck & Co., Inc.

Q: Who holds the majority of the patents related to Keytruda?
A: Merck & Co., Inc.

Q: What is the expected patent expiration date for Keytruda's original formulation?
A: 2028

Q: Who has filed patents related to the use of pembrolizumab in combination with other cancer therapies?
A: Bristol-Myers Squibb

Q: What is the impact of patent expirations on Keytruda?
A: As patents expire, the exclusivity period for Keytruda comes to an end, allowing other companies to develop and market generic versions of the drug.

Cited Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) Patent Landscape. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-landscape/pembrolizumab-keytruda>
2. Merck & Co., Inc. (n.d.). Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) Prescribing Information. Retrieved from <https://www.merck.com/product/usa/picirculars/k/keytruda/keytrudapi.pdf>
3. University of Pennsylvania. (n.d.). Patent Application for Method of Using Pembrolizumab to Treat Cancer. Retrieved from <https://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=pembrolizumab&OS=pembrolizumab&RS=pembrolizumab>
4. National Institutes of Health. (n.d.). Patent Application for Method of Using Pembrolizumab to Treat Cancer. Retrieved from <https://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=pembrolizumab&OS=pembrolizumab&RS=pembrolizumab>

Note: The article is based on publicly available information and is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to endorse any specific treatment or product.