patent

Conduit Pharmaceuticals Receives Additional Patent Approval for Lead Autoimmune Disease Asset

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Conduit Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: CDT), a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing treatments for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, announced today that it has received further patent approval for its lead therapeutic asset targeting autoimmune conditions. The newly granted patent strengthens the company’s intellectual property portfolio and provides added protection for its innovative approach to treating autoimmune diseases such as sarcoidosis and lupus.

The patent, issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), covers key methods of use and compositions relating to Conduit’s investigational drug, which is designed to modulate the immune response in patients with chronic autoimmune disorders. According to company officials, the approval not only broadens the existing patent family but also enhances the commercial potential of the lead compound as it advances through clinical development.

“This new patent grant is a major milestone for Conduit Pharmaceuticals, as it secures crucial proprietary rights over our lead autoimmune asset,” said Dr. David Tapolczay, Chief Executive Officer of Conduit Pharmaceuticals. “Our mission is to bring safe and effective treatments to patients suffering from complex autoimmune conditions, and this patent approval is a significant step forward in protecting the innovation that underpins our approach.”

The company’s lead asset, originally acquired from a major pharmaceutical partner, has demonstrated promising results in preclinical and early clinical studies. The drug works by selectively targeting pathways involved in the overactive immune response characteristic of autoimmune diseases, while minimizing systemic immunosuppression.

Conduit Pharmaceuticals has emphasized its strategy of revitalizing underutilized assets from larger pharmaceutical companies and accelerating them through late-stage development. The expanded patent protection ensures a longer runway for exclusivity, which could facilitate future licensing agreements or commercial partnerships.

Industry analysts view the patent approval as a positive development that enhances Conduit’s valuation and strengthens its position in the competitive autoimmune drug market, projected to surpass $150 billion globally by 2030.

The company plans to continue progressing its lead candidate through clinical trials, with additional updates expected later this year regarding regulatory filings and potential Phase 2 study initiations.

For more information, visit www.conduitpharma.com.

WHO and Medicines Patent Pool Support Nigerian Innovation in Health Diagnostic

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In a landmark step towards strengthening healthcare innovation in Africa, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) have announced strategic support for Nigerian-led advancements in health diagnostics. This collaboration is aimed at fostering local innovation, improving access to affordable diagnostic tools, and enhancing the country’s capacity to respond to pressing public health challenges.

The initiative comes under WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health and the MPP’s commitment to equitable access to medical innovations. Nigeria has been identified as a critical partner due to its growing innovation ecosystem and urgent need for scalable, cost-effective diagnostic solutions for diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and HIV/AIDS.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, WHO Nigeria Country Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, emphasized the importance of locally developed technologies in transforming health outcomes. “Nigeria has demonstrated significant potential in biomedical innovation,” he stated. “By supporting homegrown diagnostic solutions, we aim to empower Nigerian researchers and entrepreneurs to develop tools that are not only technologically sound but also contextually appropriate for local health challenges.”

The partnership will provide technical assistance, funding opportunities, and pathways to intellectual property management through the MPP. Nigerian innovators will gain access to international patent licensing frameworks, regulatory support, and opportunities for technology transfer. This is expected to facilitate the development, manufacturing, and distribution of diagnostics that meet global standards while remaining affordable for local healthcare systems.

“Affordable diagnostics are a cornerstone of universal health coverage,” he said. “Through this collaboration, we aim to bridge the gap between innovation and access, ensuring that promising technologies from Nigeria can benefit both the country and the wider global South.”

Among the early beneficiaries of the initiative is a Lagos-based biotech startup that has developed a rapid point-of-care diagnostic test for tuberculosis, which uses AI-powered image recognition. Another group from Ahmadu Bello University is working on a low-cost paper-based testing kit for hepatitis B and C, tailored for use in rural and underserved communities.

Health experts have welcomed the announcement, noting that empowering local solutions can reduce dependency on imported diagnostics and improve response times during outbreaks. Dr. Amina Balogun, a public health analyst, noted: “This kind of support is crucial for building a self-reliant health system. It’s not just about the tools, but about building confidence and capacity in our institutions and scientists.”

As part of the next phase, WHO and MPP plan to host a regional innovation forum in Nigeria later this year to showcase emerging diagnostic technologies and connect local developers with global health agencies and funders.

This partnership marks a significant step in aligning Nigeria’s innovation capacity with global health goals and demonstrates how strategic international collaboration can empower local solutions to meet both national and international health needs.

Patent for New Technology ‘Polymer Based Pulley-Driven Centrifugal Pump’

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Dr. A Ramarao, the Additional Project Coordinator for Samagra Shiksha, has been granted a Patent for 20-years by the Government of India for his groundbreaking innovation of the ‘Polymer Pulley-Driven Centrifugal Pump’. This patent was granted on March 4, 2025, and represents a major technological advancement in the field of mechanical engineering and in field of design of pump. The innovation is expected to revolutionize water pumping systems, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for various applications in both rural and urban areas.

The Polymer Pulley-Driven Centrifugal Pump is a novel approach to pump design, incorporating polymer-based pulleys, which are lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. In comparison of traditional metal pulleys, polymer materials offer distinct advantages, including reduced weight, lower maintenance requirements, and greater cost-effectiveness.

The Patent Details
The patent, awarded against the Application Number 202141035280, covers the unique design and operational features of the centrifugal pump system with polymer pulley. This invention is designed to be particularly effective in water pumping, where the need for a reliable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective pumping solution is paramount.

Key Features of the Polymer Pulley-Driven Centrifugal Pump:
Polymer-based Pulley
Corrosion Resistance
Cost-Effective Design
Energy Efficiency
Durability and Low Maintenance

Impact on Rural and Urban Water Systems
This patented Polymer Pulley-Driven Centrifugal Pump will address several challenges faced by rural and urban water systems in India. In rural areas, where access to reliable water sources is a significant concern, this invention will offer an affordable, low-maintenance solution for irrigation, drinking water supply, and sanitation. The lightweight nature of the pump also makes it easy to transport and install, particularly in remote locations.

For urban areas, the pump can be used in municipal water supply systems, wastewater treatment plants, and industrial applications where reliable and cost-effective pumping solutions are in high demand. Additionally, the polymer-based design makes the pump ideal for systems operating in areas where water quality may be an issue, as the corrosion resistance of the material ensures longevity even in challenging conditions.

A Significant Achievement for Samagra Shiksha
The grant of this patent is a significant achievement not only for Dr. Ramarao but also for Samagra Shiksha, a program aimed at improving the quality of education and infrastructure in India. The initiative focuses on integrating innovation with practical solutions that can benefit society, especially in the fields of education, technology, and sustainability.

Dr. Ramarao’s research and innovation are an excellent example of how scientific advancements can be applied to solve real-world problems, particularly in areas related to public infrastructure with low cost and high efficiency. Samagra Shiksha’s commitment to fostering research-driven solutions aligns with the broader goals of India’s national development, and the success of this patent is a testament to the program’s effectiveness.

The patent opens the door for further research and development in polymer-based pully systems. Dr. Ramarao and his team are already exploring ways to scale up the technology and bring it to market. In the coming months, collaborations with local manufacturers and industry players are expected to help commercialize the innovation, making it accessible to a broader audience.

As India continues to focus on water conservation and management, innovations like this pump can play a critical role in improving the efficiency of water use, reducing energy consumption, and ensuring a sustainable supply of water for both agricultural and industrial purposes.

Dr. A Ramarao’s award of a 20-year patent for the Polymer Pulley-Driven Centrifugal Pump marks a significant milestone in the field of sustainable engineering and water management technology. His dedication to developing cost-effective, energy-efficient, and durable systems has the potential to transform water pumping solutions across India, benefiting both rural and urban populations. This achievement underscores the importance of innovation in tackling some of India’s most pressing challenges and highlights the role of institutions like Samagra Shiksha in supporting research that can bring about meaningful change.

Madras High Court ruled in favor of Pfizer’s patent rights

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In a recent global patent disputes, the Madras High Court has pronounced a ruling concerning the ongoing patent dispute in the United States involving Pfizer’s drug, VYNDAMAX (also known as TAFAMIDIS), which is used to treat a rare heart condition called transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM).

The case is in focus due to the high stakes involved, as Pfizer holds a patent for VYNDAMAX, which is a formulation of TAFAMIDIS, a drug that stabilizes transthyretin (TTR) protein in the heart, which reduces the life-threatening effects of ATTR-CM. Pfizer’s patent rights on the drug have been contested in several jurisdictions, but this ruling in the Madras High Court is particularly noteworthy, as it reflects the broader international implications of the ongoing patent conflict.

In its order, the Madras High Court emphasized the importance of protecting intellectual property, especially for life-saving drugs like VYNDAMAX in pharma sector. The court ruled that Pfizer’s patent for TAFAMIDIS must be upheld in India, despite challenges from generic manufacturers. This ruling reinforces Pfizer’s exclusive rights over the formulation, production or distribution of VYNDAMAX in the Indian market.

The Madras High Court’s decision is groundbreaking for the global pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the realm of patent enforcement. The ongoing patent dispute in the other countries like United States has sparked heated debates over access to affordable medicines versus protecting the intellectual property rights of pharmaceutical companies. VYNDAMAX is considered a breakthrough in the treatment of a condition that severely impacts the heart, and its exclusivity remains a point of contention in markets where generic alternatives are being sought.

Pfizer has expressed its satisfaction with the ruling, stating that it affirms the company’s commitment to innovation and patient care. The company further emphasized that the decision will help ensure that VYNDAMAX remains available to those who need it while protecting the intellectual property rights of pharmaceutical innovators.

Although, it is expected that this ruling will have limited direct effect on markets outside of India, but it does signify the growing importance of patent protection in the global pharmaceutical landscape. Stakeholders, including patients, healthcare providers, and competitors, are keenly awaiting further developments in this high-profile case.

As the patent battle continues across borders, it remains to be seen how other jurisdictions will respond to similar challenges regarding VYNDAMAX and whether further legal actions will alter the course of the ongoing dispute.

PAU has secured a Patent for new Maize Dryer technology

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The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has secured a Patent No. 507172 for its innovative Portable Maize Dryer, a development is a ground breaking step for post-harvest processing in maize cultivation. This technology will replace traditional drying methods particularly in rural areas by the efficient grain drying solutions.

Development and Design

On the request of Punjab Secretary of Agriculture, PAU’s Department of Processing and Food Engineering embarked on designing a portable and efficient maize dryer. The project was led by Dr. Mahesh Kumar and Dr. Satish Kumar, with the support of Engineers from NU Tech Dairy, Ambala, under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PAU.

Technical Features

Capacity and Efficiency: The dryer can handle 3 tons of maize per batch, effectively reducing the moisture content of freshly harvested maize from 25% to 14%, ensuring safe storage.

Operational Flexibility: This dryer can be operated using a 35 HP tractor Power Take-Off (PTO) or a 15 kW electric power source, which makes it adaptable to various farming setups.

Heating Mechanism: This dryer is equipped with a three-pass indirect heating diesel-fired furnace, the dryer consumes 3-4 liters of diesel per hour.

Advanced Control Systems: This dryer has modern features to control the process including a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) system, waste heat recovery unit, automated temperature control ranging from 50°C to 90°C, and a flame-based optical sensor, ensuring precision heating and enhanced energy efficiency.

The granting of this patent has enhanced the PAU’s commitment to advancing agricultural technology and supporting farmers with practical solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability in crop management.

NIT Rourkela secure Patent in New Solar Technology

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National Institute of Technology (NIT) Rourkela has secured a low-cost technology patent which is designed to optimize the energy output from solar panels. This groundbreaking technology is a revolution in the field of solar power generation by improving efficiency, reducing the effective costs, and increasing the overall viability of solar energy as a sustainable power source. The patented technology has the potential to accelerating the global transition to clean energy and contribute significantly to India’s renewable energy goals.


According to one of the researchers, Mr. Susovon Samanta, Associate Professor in Electrical Engineering at NIT Rourkela, solar panels generate electricity by converting sunlight into power, but their output fluctuates throughout the day due to changes in temperature and sunlight intensity. The technology developed is called Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT), which ensure the panels consistently generate maximum energy. According to this technology, the system is designed in such a manner that it will adjusts the voltage and current based on sunlight and temperature.


Impact of technology on Solar Energy and the Environment
The new patented technology developed by NIT Rourkela has the potential to significantly increase the efficiency of solar panels, which would have a groundbreaking effect on the solar energy sector.

1. Increased Energy Output
This technology will improve the efficiency of solar panels, which will lead to higher energy yields for the same amount of sunlight.

2. Affordable Solar Energy
This technology ensures that solar panels can be produced at a more affordable price point, which is crucial for scaling up solar energy production.

3. Faster Adoption of Solar Power
With this technology the efficiency will be improved and affordable, this accelerate the adoption of solar energy in both residential and commercial sectors.

4. Sustainability and Clean Energy Transition
This technology will enhance performance and will reduce costs, that encourage more businesses and governments to invest in solar energy, further pushing the global transition towards clean and sustainable energy sources.

Zen Technologies secure a new Patent in defense

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Zen Technologies, an Indian defense technology sector company, has granted a significant patent for an innovative “Automated Hard Kill Firearm Mounting System.” The application for patent was filed by the company on October 15, 2022, will be protected by the patent up to October 15, 2042 as per Patent Act 1970, subject to renewal of Patent.

This patent technology aims to redefine military defense capabilities by enhancing the mounting systems for firearms and providing a more precise, automated mechanism for deploying hard kill systems in military applications. The groundbreaking technology marks a significant milestone in Zen Technologies’ pursuit of technological advancements in the defense and security sectors.

Understanding the Automated Hard Kill Firearm Mounting System
This “Automated Hard Kill Firearm Mounting System” developed by Zen Technologies is designed to automatically deploy and control firearms used in defense systems, mainly focusing on vehicles or stationary defense structures. However, this system can play a crucial role in modern military requirements in operations, specifically in countering threats such as incoming projectiles, explosives, or adversarial forces.
By automating the hard kill process, it will reduce the human intervention and maximizes the effectiveness of military hardware during high-stakes operations.

Hard Kill Technology
A “hard kill” defense system means a technology which is designed to physically destroy or neutralize a threat, such as an incoming missile or projectile. The automated firearm mounting system is particularly useful in integrating firearms with hard kill defense mechanisms, which can enhance their accuracy and rapid response during combat.

Key Features of the Automated Hard Kill Firearm Mounting System
1. Automation
This patent technology is designed to rapidly identify and engage threats with minimal human input. This automation is critical and key point for military operations, where speed is essential in dealing with fast-moving or high-priority threats. This technology will ensure that defensive firearms are positioned correctly and are ready to fire at a moment’s notice.

2. Enhanced Accuracy
This technology is engineered to provide enhanced accuracy by using precise sensors and targeting mechanisms. It will ensures that the firearm is mounted and positioned at the optimal angle and trajectory, increasing the likelihood of hitting the intended target during an engagement.

3. Versatility
Zen Technologies’ automated patented technology is easy adaptable and can be used with various types of firearms of defense. Due to it’s flexibility it can be suitable for a wide range of military applications, including armored vehicles, unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), and stationary defense positions.

4. Real-time Threat Assessment and Response
The system uses advanced algorithms and real-time data analytics to assess threats in real-time by use of sensor and real time feedback system. Once a threat is identified, the system will automatically respond by aligning and firing the mounted firearm at the target.

5. Integration with Other Defense Systems
The automated mounting system is designed to integrate seamlessly with any defense technologies, including radar systems, visual recognition systems, and countermeasure systems due to it’s flexibility of combination.

Potential Applications and Impact
The patented technology hard kill firearm mounting system offers numerous advantages and potential applications in defense sector.

1. Defense Vehicles
2. Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs)
3. Coastal and Border Defense
4. Integration with Drones
5. Civilian and Private Security

Zen Technologies’ Vision for the Future
Zen Technologies, known for its expertise in defense and training sectors, has long focused on developing cutting-edge technologies for modern warfare. This is the 3rd grant in calendar year 2025 and 13th grant in financial year 2024-25 for Zen technology.

Conclusion
This patent for the Automated Hard Kill Firearm Mounting System represents a major leap forward in defense technology for Zen Technologies. This granted technology promises to enhance the precision, speed, and efficiency of military defense systems, which provides greater protection against a wide range of threats. It has potential applications in vehicles, unmanned systems, border defense, and even private security, the patented technology has the ability to shape the future of warfare, advancing the integration of automation into military strategy.

“Linezolid” Patent Revoked After Post-Grant Opposition by Symed Labs

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The Indian Patent Office has revoked Patent No. 281489 (Application No. 201641013830) following a post-grant opposition filed by Symed Labs. The patent was granted on 20 March, 2017 and the post grant opposition was filed on 5 March, 2018. The patentee had also amended its claims during the opposition proceedings and urged that the application under Form 13 (for amendment of claims) be disposed of so as to be certain of the final set of allowed claims for the hearing. The revocation was based on several grounds:

Lack of Inventive Step (Obviousness): The controller concluded that the patent was found to lack an inventive step, meaning the claimed invention was obvious to someone skilled in the field.

Non-Patentability Under Section 3(d): The invention also did not meet the criteria for patentability under Section 3(d) of the Patents Act, which states that new forms of known substances that do not result in enhanced efficacy.

Failure to Disclose Information Under Section 8: The patent holder failed to disclose required information as per Section 8 of the Patents Act 1970, which mandates the disclosure of including the disclosure of status of those applications, at the time of filing and during the prosecution of the patent. regarding corresponding foreign applications of this invention.

This patent pertained to Linezolid, an antibiotic used to treat pneumonia, skin infections, and drug-resistant tuberculosis. The earlier patent for Linezolid had expired on January 1, 2012. The revocation of this patent may have implications for the availability and pricing of Linezolid in India. This decision has highlighted the need for quality standards and more careful examination when it is about critical drugs, particularly in light of public health considerations and the potential for monopolistic practices.

Honda filed a new technology Patent for CG 160 motorcycle

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Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India has recently filed a patent for the design of the CG 160, indicating plans to introduce this model to the Indian market. However, Honda CG 160 is already available in Brazil and is popular commuter motorcycle, known for its reliability and efficiency.
Technical Features:

Engine: The news coming out is that CG 160 is powered by a 162.7cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine. This engine is compatible with both gasoline and ethanol fuels, offering flexibility and improved performance when using ethanol.
Power Output: It delivers approximately 14.4 horsepower at 8,000 rpm and produces 13.8 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.
Transmission: The engine is mated to a 5-speed gearbox, providing smooth gear transitions suitable for urban commuting. ​

Frame and Suspension: The motorcycle features a diamond frame with telescopic front forks and twin shock absorbers at the rear to provide a comfortable ride on various road conditions. ​

Braking System: It is equipped with disc brakes at both the front and rear wheels, this will enhance stopping power and safety. ​

Tires: The CG 160 rides on 18-inch alloy wheels, with an 80/100-18 tire at the front and a 90/90-18 tire at the rear end, this configuration provides stability and grip to the vehicle.

Although, the exact launch date in India has not been officially announced, but the recent patent filing suggests that Honda plans to introduce the CG 160 to the Indian market in the near future. The model has been a best-seller in Brazil since 2015, and Honda’s move to patent its design in India indicates a strategic expansion into the Indian commuter motorcycle segment to create place in Indian auto market.

Delhi High Court upheld Controller’s decision under section 10(4)

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The Delhi High Court’s decision highlights the importance of fulfilling the detailed disclosure requirements under the Patents Act 1970, particularly in terms of the scope of the claims made in a patent application. The ruling on the patent application by the Regents of the University of California relates to a recombinant Salmonella microorganism-based live vaccine designed to prevent enteric bacterial infections

Key points from the ruling:

Insufficient Disclosure: The court emphasized that the patent application needed for a clear and comprehensive understanding of the invention. This failure resulted in non-compliance with Section 10(4) of the Patents Act, which requires a full description of the invention and the best method of performing it.

Scope of Claims: The Court found that the application broadly claimed the disruption of the gene product in any form, not just through deliberate genetic modifications. This broadness could have led to the inclusion of naturally occurring mutations, which are excluded from patentability under Section 3(c) of the Act. Therefore, the application lacked clarity and precision in defining the scope of what it intended to patent.

Failure to Enable a Skilled Person: The court noted that the patent application did not provide sufficient details for a person skilled in microbiology subject matter to carry out the invention, which is required under Section 10(4)(b) of the Patent Act. The application was seen as incomplete, leaving out important details needed for the invention’s practical implementation.

Incomplete Disclosure: Although the application included examples of deletion mutations in Salmonella, it did not sufficiently cover other forms of mutations, like insertion or substitution. This partial disclosure further contributed to the application’s failure to meet the standards of Section 10(4)(a), which mandates that the invention be fully disclosed.

Impact of the Decision: The Court’s decision focuses the necessity of precise and detailed disclosures in patent applications, particularly when the scope of the invention could potentially cover a wide variety of methods or naturally occurring phenomena. It also highlights the potential issues with vague claims that might lead to patenting something that should not be patentable, such as naturally mutated organisms.

In conclusion, the Delhi High Court upheld the controller’s decision of refusal to grant a patent, reinforcing the importance of clarity and completeness in patent applications for biotechnology-related inventions.