Halozyme Therapeutics, a leading biotechnology company which is specialized in the development of innovative drug delivery systems, has raised serious infringement issue regarding the latest iteration of Merck’s blockbuster cancer treatment, Keytruda. A report published by the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 says that Halozyme has formally accused Merck of infringing on its patents with the new version of the cancer immunotherapy drug.
Basically, the dispute moves around the use of Halozyme’s proprietary technology in drug delivery. Halozyme has developed a platform known as ENHANZE, which uses the enzyme hyaluronidase to facilitate the delivery of injectable biologic therapies. The technology helps in enhancing the absorption and distribution of drugs, enabling patients to receive their medications more efficiently with the help of fewer injections. The company has licensed this technology to multiple pharmaceutical partners, including Merck.
Keytruda, Merck’s most successful immuno-oncology drug, is used in the treatment of various cancers, including lung, melanoma, and head and neck cancers. The drug works by inhibiting the PD-1 protein, which prevents the immune system from attacking cancer cells. Keytruda has become one of the highest-grossing cancer drugs globally, generating billions of dollars in revenue for Merck.
Although Keytruda has been available in its original formulation for years, Merck has recently introduced a new version designed to improve its dosing and delivery system as per patient convenience and to reduce the frequency of treatment. This new formulation, which involves a subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injection rather than an intravenous infusion, is said to incorporate Halozyme’s ENHANZE technology.
The patent dispute has raised significant concerns in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries, especially given the high stakes involved. Keytruda’s success has made it one of the most critical cancer therapies in the world, and any disruption to its continued availability or distribution could have far-reaching effects for both Merck and its patients. On the other hand, Halozyme’s potential legal victory could lead to lucrative compensation or even the suspension of Merck’s new Keytruda formulation.
However, both Halozyme and Merck have yet to provide formal public comments on the matter and spokespeople for the companies declining to offer further details beyond confirming their awareness of the issue.
This case highlights the broader importance of intellectual property protection and the intense scrutiny surrounding the use of cutting-edge technologies in the rapidly evolving world of drug development. The outcome of this dispute will likely have long-term ramifications for both companies and the pharma industry at large.
PAU has secured a Patent for new Maize Dryer technology
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
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
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.
First Solar sues JinkoSolar over Infringement of New Patent Technology
First Solar an US solar panel manufacturer, has initiated legal action against JinkoSolar (Chinese solar panel manufacturer), alleging infringement of its U.S. Patent No. 9,130,074, which pertains to tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) solar technology. This patent was obtained by First Solar in 2013 through its aquiring of TetraSun, Inc.
The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware. First Solar claims that JinkoSolar’s use of TOPCon technology infringes upon its patent rights. In defense, a JinkoSolar spokesperson stated that the company is having proof that the claims lack merit and intends to vigorously defend itself against what it considers baseless allegations by First solar.
Currently, the legal action is part of a broader trend in the solar industry, where several major manufacturers are engaged in patent disputes over TOPCon technology. In October 2024, First Solar notified several large competitors, including JinkoSolar, of alleged infringements on its TOPCon patents.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the solar industry market and manufacturers , particularly concerning the development and commercialization of advanced solar technologies like TOPCon worldwide.
The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware. First Solar claims that JinkoSolar’s use of TOPCon technology infringes upon its patent rights. In defense, a JinkoSolar spokesperson stated that the company is having proof that the claims lack merit and intends to vigorously defend itself against what it considers baseless allegations by First solar.
Currently, the legal action is part of a broader trend in the solar industry, where several major manufacturers are engaged in patent disputes over TOPCon technology. In October 2024, First Solar notified several large competitors, including JinkoSolar, of alleged infringements on its TOPCon patents.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the solar industry market and manufacturers , particularly concerning the development and commercialization of advanced solar technologies like TOPCon worldwide.
Amazon to pay $39M to Lifestyle for trademark infringement
The Delhi High Court in a recent order on February 26, 2025, ordered Amazon to pay $39 million (approximately ₹340 crore) in damages to Lifestyle Equities CV for infringing upon its ‘Beverly Hills Polo Club’ trademark.
Lifestyle Equities had filed a trademark infringement suit in 2020, alleging that Amazon Technologies and associated sellers of amazon used a deceptively similar mark on apparel and other products sold on Amazon’s platform. The court had previously issued an interim injunction in October 2020, restraining Amazon and others from using the infringing logo and directing Amazon Seller Services to remove the infringing products from its platform.
During the proceedings it is found that the Cloudtail India, a major seller on Amazon.in, acknowledged its involvement in the sale of the infringing products and proposed a settlement that would include damages. The court also awarded damages of ₹4,78,484 against Cloudtail, representing 20% of its revenue from infringing products. Amazon Seller Services was removed from the list of involved parties, as it agreed to remove any future listings of infringing products.
This ruling has the importance of trademark protection and the legal consequences of infringement of intellectual property, particularly in the e-commerce sector.
Lifestyle Equities had filed a trademark infringement suit in 2020, alleging that Amazon Technologies and associated sellers of amazon used a deceptively similar mark on apparel and other products sold on Amazon’s platform. The court had previously issued an interim injunction in October 2020, restraining Amazon and others from using the infringing logo and directing Amazon Seller Services to remove the infringing products from its platform.
During the proceedings it is found that the Cloudtail India, a major seller on Amazon.in, acknowledged its involvement in the sale of the infringing products and proposed a settlement that would include damages. The court also awarded damages of ₹4,78,484 against Cloudtail, representing 20% of its revenue from infringing products. Amazon Seller Services was removed from the list of involved parties, as it agreed to remove any future listings of infringing products.
This ruling has the importance of trademark protection and the legal consequences of infringement of intellectual property, particularly in the e-commerce sector.
“Linezolid” Patent Revoked After Post-Grant Opposition by Symed Labs
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.
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.
Government can invoke section 100 of Patent for Rare Disease Medicine
In a recent news MP Haris Beeran (Rajya Sabha) wrote to the Minister of Health and Family Welfare on December 20, 2024, urging the Central Government to invoke Section 100 (1) of the Patents Act with respect to local production of the rare disease Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) treating drug Risdiplam. SMA is a genetic disease affecting the nerve cells that control voluntary muscle movement. SMA incidence in India is one in 10,000 live-born babies. Risdiplam is currently under patent protection in India till May 11, 2035 (subject to payment of Patent renewal fees) and is Patented as Indian Patent No. IN 334397.
Key Points:
High Treatment Costs: The annual cost of Risdiplam treatment is approximately ₹1 crore, which is huge and unaffordable for patients.
Government Intervention: Section 100 of the Patents Act empowers the government of India to authorize the local manufacturing of patented drugs in the extreme urgency, potentially reducing costs significantly.
Public Health Impact: SMA affects thousands of children in India annually, and the high cost of treatment has led to calls for government action to ensure access to essential medications.
By invoking Section 100, the government can enable local production of Risdiplam, potentially reducing the annual treatment cost to around ₹3,024, thereby improving access for patients in need. Section 100 empowers the central government to use, or authorise to use, an invention (application or grant) for the purposes of the government, on a non-commercial basis. Importantly, this is not a provision that requires abuse of patent by the patentee. This includes but is not limited to using the invention in case of national emergency or other situations of extreme urgency.
Key Points:
High Treatment Costs: The annual cost of Risdiplam treatment is approximately ₹1 crore, which is huge and unaffordable for patients.
Government Intervention: Section 100 of the Patents Act empowers the government of India to authorize the local manufacturing of patented drugs in the extreme urgency, potentially reducing costs significantly.
Public Health Impact: SMA affects thousands of children in India annually, and the high cost of treatment has led to calls for government action to ensure access to essential medications.
By invoking Section 100, the government can enable local production of Risdiplam, potentially reducing the annual treatment cost to around ₹3,024, thereby improving access for patients in need. Section 100 empowers the central government to use, or authorise to use, an invention (application or grant) for the purposes of the government, on a non-commercial basis. Importantly, this is not a provision that requires abuse of patent by the patentee. This includes but is not limited to using the invention in case of national emergency or other situations of extreme urgency.
Honda filed a new technology Patent for CG 160 motorcycle
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)
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.