innovation

Iran Secures International Patent for Breakthrough Curcumin-Based Nanomedicine

by
Iran secures international patent for curcumin-based nanomedicine using nano-crystal technology

Iran has achieved a major scientific and commercial milestone. Iranian researchers have secured an international patent for an advanced curcumin-based nanomedicine, marking a decisive step forward in pharmaceutical nanotechnology and natural compound therapeutics.

The patented invention transforms curcumin — a well-known bioactive compound derived from turmeric — into a highly effective medical formulation. It overcomes long-standing scientific barriers that have limited curcumin’s real-world therapeutic use for decades.

Turning Promise into Performance

Curcumin has attracted global attention for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential disease-modifying properties. Researchers have linked it to benefits in pain management, metabolic disorders, neurological conditions, and oncology research.

Yet curcumin has one critical weakness. The human body absorbs it very poorly. Conventional oral curcumin shows extremely low solubility in water and minimal bioavailability. Most of the compound passes through the body without delivering therapeutic impact.

Iran’s newly patented nanomedicine solves this problem decisively.

Using advanced nano-crystal and co-crystal engineering, Iranian scientists have redesigned curcumin at the molecular level. The result is a formulation that dissolves rapidly, absorbs efficiently, and remains stable in aqueous environments.

Nano Formulation vs Conventional Curcumin

The difference between traditional curcumin and the Iranian nano-curcumin is stark.

Conventional curcumin:

  • Shows very low water solubility
  • Achieves less than 1% systemic absorption
  • Requires high doses to show limited effect

The patented nano-curcumin:

  • Increases water solubility by over 10,000 times
  • Boosts bioavailability by more than 100 times
  • Delivers therapeutic effects at significantly lower doses

This is not a marginal improvement. It is a structural transformation that moves curcumin from the supplement category into serious pharmaceutical territory.

International Patent Protection

The innovation has been granted international patent protection, including registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This recognition confirms the novelty, industrial applicability, and inventive step of the Iranian technology under global intellectual property standards.

International protection gives the patent holder exclusive rights to commercialize, license, and expand the technology across major global markets. It also places the invention on equal legal footing with pharmaceutical innovations from leading research economies.

Real-World Applications Already Underway

Unlike many laboratory-stage nanomedicine concepts, this patented formulation has already moved toward practical deployment.

The nano-curcumin technology is being used in:

  • Oral pharmaceutical solutions
  • Functional and therapeutic beverages
  • Human and veterinary health formulations

Because the formulation achieves higher efficacy at lower doses, it improves patient compliance and reduces the risk of side effects associated with high-dose supplementation.

Lower dosing also translates into cost efficiency, making the technology attractive for both public health systems and private pharmaceutical manufacturers.

How It Compares Globally

Around the world, researchers have experimented with liposomes, polymer carriers, and lipid nanoparticles to enhance curcumin delivery. While many approaches have shown promise, most remain limited to experimental studies or early-stage trials.

Iran’s patented technology stands apart for three reasons:

  1. Proven scalability — suitable for industrial pharmaceutical production
  2. Strong legal protection — secured through international patent systems
  3. Immediate usability — already integrated into market-ready formulations

This combination gives Iran a competitive edge in the fast-growing global nanomedicine market.

Implications for Modern Medicine

Improved curcumin delivery has far-reaching implications. Higher bioavailability enables researchers and clinicians to explore curcumin’s role as:

  • An adjunct therapy in inflammatory disorders
  • A supportive agent in neurological and metabolic conditions
  • A complementary compound in oncology research
  • A next-generation nutraceutical with pharmaceutical-grade performance

By addressing pharmacokinetic limitations, the nano-formulation unlocks curcumin’s full therapeutic potential.

Strengthening Iran’s Scientific Footprint

This patent reflects Iran’s expanding role in nanotechnology and applied biomedical research. Over the past decade, the country has steadily increased its output of high-impact scientific publications and internationally recognized patents.

The curcumin nanomedicine patent reinforces Iran’s position as a serious contributor to advanced pharmaceutical innovation. It also highlights the country’s ability to translate academic research into protected, commercial-grade technologies.

Strategic and Economic Impact

Beyond science, the patent carries strong economic value.

International protection enables:

  • Technology licensing to foreign pharmaceutical companies
  • Export-oriented production of nano-based medicines
  • Entry into high-value global healthcare markets

In an industry driven by intellectual property, this patent represents a durable strategic asset.

Conclusion

Iran’s international patent for a curcumin-based nanomedicine marks a decisive breakthrough in drug delivery science. By transforming a powerful but poorly absorbed natural compound into a highly bioavailable therapeutic agent, Iranian researchers have crossed a critical innovation threshold.

The achievement strengthens Iran’s global scientific standing, opens new commercial pathways, and signals a future where nanotechnology bridges the gap between traditional compounds and modern medicine.

Cartherics Strengthens Global IP With TAG-72 CAR Patent in China

by
Cartherics secures China patent for TAG-72 CAR gene-modified stem cell cancer therapy


Cartherics Pty Ltd has secured a major intellectual property victory in China, with the grant of a key patent covering its TAG-72 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) gene-modified stem cell technology. The development significantly strengthens the company’s global patent portfolio and reinforces its position in the rapidly evolving cell-based immunotherapy market.

The newly granted patent protects genetically modified mammalian stem cells engineered with Cartherics’ proprietary CAR technology targeting TAG-72, a tumour-associated antigen widely expressed in several solid cancers. The protection directly supports Cartherics’ lead program, CTH-401, an off-the-shelf CAR-natural killer (CAR-NK) cell therapy under development for ovarian cancer.

This is the second patent from the same family granted to Cartherics in China, underscoring the growing strength and geographic reach of its intellectual property strategy.

China Emerges as a Critical IP Battleground

China has become one of the most competitive and strategically important jurisdictions for biotechnology patents. With a rapidly expanding oncology market and increasing regulatory support for innovative therapies, patent protection in China is now essential for companies seeking long-term commercial success.

Cartherics’ decision to aggressively protect its technology in China sets it apart from many early-stage biotech firms that focus primarily on Western markets. By securing patent rights at this stage, the company reduces future commercialization risks while strengthening its negotiating position for regional partnerships and licensing opportunities.

The patent also reflects the Chinese Patent Office’s recognition of the novelty and inventive step of Cartherics’ CAR-based stem cell technology in a highly crowded immunotherapy field.

CTH-401: A Differentiated Cell Therapy Candidate

At the core of this patent is CTH-401, Cartherics’ lead allogeneic CAR-NK cell therapy derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Unlike traditional CAR-T therapies, which are manufactured individually for each patient, CTH-401 is designed as an off-the-shelf product.

This distinction is critical.

Off-the-shelf therapies allow for standardized manufacturing, faster patient access, and potentially lower treatment costs. They also avoid the variability and logistical challenges associated with patient-derived cells.

CTH-401 targets TAG-72, a well-validated tumour marker found on ovarian, gastric, pancreatic, and other adenocarcinomas. Solid tumours have historically resisted CAR-based therapies, making TAG-72 an especially valuable target in the race to expand immunotherapy beyond blood cancers.

CAR-NK Versus CAR-T: A Strategic Shift

CAR-T therapies have transformed treatment for certain blood cancers, but they face limitations in solid tumours and are often associated with severe side effects and high costs.

CAR-NK therapies offer a compelling alternative.

Natural killer cells are part of the innate immune system and tend to produce fewer toxic immune reactions. When combined with CAR engineering and stem cell-based manufacturing, they offer a scalable and potentially safer immunotherapy platform.

Cartherics’ China patent protects critical gene-editing steps used to engineer these cells, creating a strong legal barrier against competitors attempting to replicate similar approaches in one of the world’s largest healthcare markets.

Clinical Progress and Timelines

Cartherics is currently manufacturing CTH-401 in upgraded cleanroom facilities and is preparing for first-in-human clinical trials. The company has indicated plans to initiate trials in ovarian cancer patients in the second half of 2026.

Ovarian cancer remains one of the most lethal gynecological cancers globally, with limited treatment options for advanced or recurrent disease. Immunotherapies capable of precisely targeting tumour cells could dramatically alter outcomes for patients who currently face poor prognoses.

The China patent ensures that Cartherics enters this clinical phase with strong intellectual property protection already in place.

Commercial and Partnership Implications

Beyond clinical development, the patent strengthens Cartherics’ appeal to strategic partners. China’s biotech ecosystem increasingly relies on licensing and co-development deals with foreign innovators to accelerate access to advanced therapies.

Cartherics has previously demonstrated its willingness to pursue regional partnerships, particularly in Greater China. The expanded patent coverage enhances the company’s leverage in future negotiations involving manufacturing, clinical development, or commercialization rights.

Leadership Perspective

Cartherics’ management has described the patent as a valuable addition to its growing global IP portfolio, supporting both development and future commercialization of its off-the-shelf cellular therapies.

In an industry where weak patent protection can stall promising science, this development signals both technical maturity and long-term strategic planning.

Looking Ahead

As competition intensifies in the cell therapy sector, strong intellectual property protection is no longer optional. It is foundational.

With multiple patents now secured across key jurisdictions, Cartherics is positioning itself as a serious contender in the next generation of solid-tumour immunotherapies. The China patent is not just a legal milestone. It is a commercial enabler and a confidence signal ahead of clinical validation.

If CTH-401 succeeds in trials, Cartherics’ early and comprehensive IP strategy could prove decisive in bringing a new class of cancer therapies to patients worldwide.

TVS eFX 3O Electric Motorcycle Design Patented in India: A Bold Signal for the Future of Electric Bikes

by
Futuristic TVS eFX 3O electric motorcycle concept with sharp angular bodywork, rectangular LED headlamp, exposed battery pack, and premium suspension in a dramatic studio setting.

TVS Motor Company has taken a decisive step toward the future of electric motorcycling. The company has secured a design patent in India for its eFX 3O electric motorcycle concept, a machine that first stunned global audiences with its radical styling and aggressive stance. This patent filing sends a clear message. TVS is no longer testing the waters. It is preparing to compete seriously in the premium electric motorcycle space.

At a time when India’s electric two-wheeler market remains dominated by scooters, the eFX 3O patent signals a strategic shift. TVS appears ready to challenge conventions, push design boundaries, and redefine how electric motorcycles are perceived in the country.

A Concept That Refuses to Be Ignored

The TVS eFX 3O made its debut as a concept motorcycle at EICMA, the world’s biggest two-wheeler show. From the moment it rolled onto the stage, it stood apart. Unlike conservative electric bikes that mimic petrol models, the eFX 3O embraced a futuristic, uncompromising identity.

Now, with its design patented in India, the concept has moved closer to reality.

A design patent does not confirm production. But it strongly indicates intent. Manufacturers rarely invest in patent protection unless they see long-term value. In TVS’s case, the move suggests that the eFX 3O could evolve from a showpiece into a road-ready machine.

Sharp Design Sets the Tone

The patented design reveals a motorcycle that looks fast even when standing still. The eFX 3O uses angular body panels, a sharply sculpted fuel-tank-style battery housing, and a minimalist rear section. Every line looks deliberate. Every surface feels purposeful.

The front end grabs attention immediately. A rectangular LED headlamp replaces traditional round or oval units. It gives the bike a robotic, almost cyberpunk character. Slim LED indicators and clean surfaces reinforce the futuristic theme.

In contrast to bulky electric motorcycles that hide their components, the eFX 3O proudly displays its mechanical elements. The battery pack remains partially exposed. The motor and belt drive sit in plain view. This approach emphasizes performance and honesty in design.

Chassis and Hardware Speak Performance

The eFX 3O design patent also highlights premium underpinnings. The motorcycle features upside-down front forks, a setup typically reserved for performance-oriented bikes. At the rear, a monoshock suspension supports a compact and athletic stance.

The wheels appear solid or partially covered, reducing visual clutter and improving aerodynamics. Disc brakes at both ends suggest strong stopping power, while the design hints at the possibility of dual-channel ABS in a production version.

Compared to current electric motorcycles in India, which often rely on basic hardware to control costs, the eFX 3O looks unapologetically premium.

Riding Posture Focuses on Engagement

The patented images show a rider-centric layout. The seat sits low and flat. The handlebars appear slightly forward-set. The foot pegs suggest a sporty yet usable riding triangle.

This setup contrasts sharply with commuter-focused electric bikes that prioritize upright comfort over engagement. TVS seems to be targeting riders who value control, feedback, and excitement.

The eFX 3O does not try to please everyone. It aims to attract enthusiasts.

Technology Still Under Wraps

TVS has not disclosed technical specifications for the eFX 3O. The patent focuses only on design, not engineering details. However, the layout provides clues.

The motorcycle likely uses a mid-mounted electric motor paired with a belt drive. This configuration improves weight distribution and reduces unsprung mass. It also enhances ride quality and handling.

The visible battery housing suggests a fixed battery pack rather than a removable unit. This choice aligns with performance goals, as fixed batteries allow better structural rigidity and higher energy density.

Compared to electric scooters and entry-level electric bikes, which prioritize convenience, the eFX 3O appears designed for dynamic performance.

How It Compares to the Current EV Market

India’s electric two-wheeler market tells a clear story. Scooters dominate sales. Electric motorcycles remain niche. Most available options focus on affordability rather than aspiration.

TVS seems determined to change that narrative.

Unlike commuter-style electric bikes, the eFX 3O targets the premium lifestyle segment. It competes on design, presence, and brand image rather than price alone. This strategy mirrors global trends, where electric motorcycles increasingly emphasize identity and emotion.

When compared with petrol motorcycles in the same visual class, the eFX 3O does not feel like a compromise. It looks like a clean-sheet design, free from legacy constraints.

Strategic Importance for TVS

TVS already holds a strong position in India’s electric scooter market with the iQube. However, scooters alone cannot define an electric future. Motorcycles remain central to India’s two-wheeler culture.

By patenting the eFX 3O design, TVS signals its ambition to lead, not follow.

The move also strengthens TVS’s global image. A bold electric motorcycle aligns with international markets where premium EVs command attention and higher margins. It positions TVS as a technology-driven manufacturer capable of innovation beyond mass-market products.

Production Timeline Remains Unclear

Despite the excitement, TVS has not announced a launch timeline. The eFX 3O remains a concept on paper and in patent drawings.

Industry watchers expect that if TVS greenlights production, the motorcycle could arrive between 2026 and 2027. Pricing would likely place it in the premium segment, possibly above mainstream petrol motorcycles but competitive with global electric offerings.

Much will depend on battery costs, charging infrastructure, and consumer readiness.

A Clear Message to the Industry

The eFX 3O design patent delivers a powerful message. TVS believes electric motorcycles deserve bold design and serious intent. The company refuses to treat EVs as secondary products.

In comparison to cautious rivals, TVS appears confident. It is willing to experiment. It is willing to invest. And it is willing to lead.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Patent

The TVS eFX 3O is more than a patented design. It represents a mindset shift. It challenges the idea that electric motorcycles must be dull, slow, or purely practical.

If TVS brings this concept to life, it could redefine expectations in India’s electric two-wheeler market. The patent may be silent on specifications. But its message is loud and clear.

The electric motorcycle era is coming. TVS wants to shape it.

Samsung’s Groundbreaking Reversible Flip Phone Patent: A Game-Changer for Foldables?

by
Line drawing from Samsung's WIPO patent showing a clamshell-style flip phone in various views: unfolded, folded inward, and folded outward with symmetrical outer panels and a 360-degree hinge mechanism.

Revolutionary Design Alert: Samsung Just Dropped a Mind-Blowing Patent That’s Set to Disrupt the Foldable World

Samsung is unstoppable. The tech giant has unleashed a stunning new patent that’s turning heads across the industry. This isn’t your ordinary flip phone upgrade. It’s a reversible clamshell masterpiece – a bold, symmetrical foldable that obliterates the old “front vs. back” rules.

Imagine this: Fold it one way. Or the other. Either side faces out. No more fumbling. No defined exterior. Pure freedom. This innovative design delivers ultimate symmetry, making every grip feel flawless.

Spotted on the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) database, the patent sketches reveal a sleek device. Both outer panels mirror each other perfectly in size and shape. One side boasts a circular camera cutout with a tiny LED flash. The other? Clean and minimalist. Flip it open for a massive inner display. Close it for pocket-sized perfection.

Samsung Galaxy Flip Retro Smartphone Has Leaked | Neume

This is next-level innovation. Current Galaxy Z Flip models dominate with their cover screens and camera bumps. But Samsung’s latest vision? It erases distinctions. Hold it any way. Fold it effortlessly. Experience consistency like never before.

Why does this matter? Foldables are exploding in 2026. Market experts predict a massive 30% growth spike. Apple’s rumored iPhone Fold looms. Samsung’s TriFold is already teasing boundaries. Huawei pushes ultra-thin limits. Now, this reversible flip enters the arena – a potential powerhouse for ergonomics and style.

Think about the impact. Users crave seamless experiences. This design screams versatility. No awkward orientations. Just intuitive brilliance. It could redefine daily interactions – quick glances, effortless selfies, immersive multitasking.

Samsung leads the foldable charge. They’ve mastered hinges, displays, and durability. This patent builds on that legacy. It hints at slimmer profiles, tougher materials, and AI-powered features trending hot this year.

But hold on. Patents excite. They don’t guarantee products. Samsung files dozens annually to lock in ideas. Many stay conceptual. Yet, timing feels electric. CES 2026 buzzes with foldable hype. Tri-folds, wide-folds, and now reversible designs dominate conversations.

Visualize the possibilities. A Galaxy Z Flip 8 evolution? Or a standalone stunner? Sketches show uniform thickness. Advanced hinge tech. Views from every angle – folded, unfolded, sideways.

These renders capture the essence. Symmetrical beauty. Futuristic flair. Bold colors pop in concepts.

Dive deeper. Foldables evolve rapidly. 2026 promises AI integration everywhere. Gemini powers millions of Samsung devices. Expect smarter cameras, predictive folding, personalized interfaces.

Battery life? Massive leaps ahead. Ultra-thin yet enduring. Cameras? Pro-grade sensors in compact forms.

A Look At The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 SmartPhone (Design Renders) 2026

Sustainability trends too. Recycled materials. Energy-efficient screens.

Competition intensifies. Motorola expands Razr lineup. Oppo, Vivo push boundaries. But Samsung? They’re the kings of innovation.

This reversible patent sparks excitement. It challenges norms. Forces rivals to innovate faster.

Consumers win big. More choices. Better designs. Affordable premiums?

Enthusiasts are buzzing online. Forums explode with speculation. “Game-changer!” they shout. “Finally, true symmetry!”

Realism check: Commercial launch? Uncertain. But Samsung teases prototypes often. Trade shows reveal hints.

Stay tuned. 2026 unfolds as the year of foldables. Samsung leads the revolution.

This design isn’t just clever. It’s transformative. It empowers users. Simplifies life. Elevates mobile tech.

Samsung strikes again. Bold. Brilliant. Unstoppable.

The foldable future arrives. Reversible. Remarkable. Ready to dominate.

Delhi High Court Revives Nippon Steel Patent Application Rejected After Inventor’s Death

by
Delhi High Court ruling on Japanese high-strength steel patent application

A Strong Message on Proof of Right, Inventor Death, and Corporate Patents

The Delhi High Court has delivered a decisive ruling that reshapes how India’s Patent Office must treat corporate patent filings when an inventor dies.
The judgement restores balance between procedural law and commercial reality.
It also sends a clear warning against rigid and misplaced interpretations of the Patents Act.

In a case involving a Japanese steel major, the Court quashed a Patent Office order that had refused a patent application for high-strength steel technology.
The refusal rested on a narrow reading of “proof of right.”
The High Court rejected that approach outright.

The Dispute at a Glance

The case arose from a patent application filed by a Japanese company for an invention titled high-strength steel sheet and its manufacturing method.
The technology targets advanced industrial use.
It promises stronger, lighter, and more durable steel.

The application named four inventors.
All were employees of the company.
One inventor passed away during the pendency of the application.

That single fact triggered a chain of legal errors.

The Indian Patent Office refused the application.
It claimed the company failed to prove its right to apply for the patent.
According to the Controller, the company needed an assignment deed from the deceased inventor or his legal heirs.

The company challenged the refusal before the Delhi High Court.

Patent Office View: Procedure Over Substance

The Patent Office took a strict position.

It held that:

  • The death of one inventor broke the chain of title.
  • An employment agreement was not enough to establish ownership.
  • A formal assignment was mandatory.
  • Without it, the company lacked legal standing.

The Controller relied heavily on Section 68 of the Patents Act, which governs assignments.
The Office treated the application as legally defective.

This approach placed form above function.
It ignored how corporate innovation actually works.

High Court Pushback: Law Must Serve Logic

The Delhi High Court firmly disagreed.

The Court ruled that the Patent Office misread the law and misapplied statutory provisions.
It quashed the refusal order in full.

The judgment draws a sharp line between:

  • The right to apply for a patent, and
  • The assignment of a granted patent.

The Patent Office, the Court said, wrongly merged the two.

Employment Contracts Matter

At the heart of the ruling lies one critical finding.

The Court held that an employment agreement can constitute valid proof of right under Indian patent law.

The inventor had signed the agreement during his lifetime.
That agreement clearly vested intellectual property rights in the employer.
The inventor’s later death did not undo that transfer.

The Court emphasized that:

  • The right to apply arises at the filing stage.
  • Section 7 of the Patents Act governs this stage.
  • Section 68 applies only after a patent is granted.

By invoking Section 68 prematurely, the Patent Office committed a legal error.

Inventor Death Is Not a Legal Dead End

The ruling delivers clarity on a sensitive issue.

Inventor death does not automatically invalidate a patent application.
Nor does it force companies into impossible compliance.

The Court noted that:

  • The invention was created during employment.
  • Rights already vested in the company.
  • No fresh assignment was legally required.

Requiring legal heirs to execute assignments would create uncertainty.
It would also disrupt global innovation chains.

The Court refused to allow such instability.

Comparative View: India vs Global Practice

The judgment aligns Indian patent law with global norms.

In major innovation jurisdictions:

  • Employment agreements routinely govern IP ownership.
  • Corporate applicants rely on internal policies.
  • Inventor death does not derail filings.

The Delhi High Court recognized this reality.

It implicitly acknowledged that multinational companies cannot chase posthumous paperwork across borders.
Patent systems must support innovation, not sabotage it.

Procedural Law Is a Tool, Not a Weapon

The Court delivered another powerful message.

Procedural law must advance justice.
It must not obstruct it.

The judgment criticized mechanical decision-making.
It warned against turning technical rules into roadblocks.

Patent examiners, the Court said, must adopt a pragmatic and legally sound approach.

This observation carries wide implications.

What the Court Ordered

The High Court:

  • Set aside the Patent Office refusal.
  • Restored the application.
  • Directed a fresh examination on merits.
  • Barred reliance on the flawed proof-of-right objection.

The ruling does not grant the patent outright.
It restores due process.

Why This Judgment Matters

This decision has industry-wide impact.

For Corporates

  • Employment contracts gain legal weight.
  • Filing risks reduce.
  • Cross-border patent strategy becomes safer.

For Patent Professionals

  • Proof-of-right standards gain clarity.
  • Section 7 and Section 68 are clearly separated.
  • Examiner discretion faces judicial limits.

For the Patent Office

  • The ruling sets a binding precedent.
  • Over-technical refusals face greater scrutiny.
  • Legal accuracy becomes non-negotiable.

A Win for Innovation, Not Just One Company

This case is not just about steel.

It is about how India treats innovation.
It is about predictability.
It is about fairness.

The Delhi High Court reaffirmed that India’s patent system must support genuine inventors and rightful applicants.
It must not collapse under procedural rigidity.

Conclusion: A Course Correction for Indian Patent Law

The ruling marks a turning point.

It restores confidence in India’s intellectual property regime.
It reassures global innovators.
It strengthens the rule of law.

Most importantly, it confirms one truth:
Innovation does not die with an inventor.

When rights are lawfully vested, the law must respect them.

Korea Neuromorphic Chip Patent Growth: Secures Global Second Spot

by
diagram of a neuromorphic chip architecture mimicking the human brain

South Korea secured a significant global ranking. The nation stands second worldwide in neuromorphic chip patent growth. These chips are crucial for the next generation of artificial intelligence.

PATENT GROWTH EXPLODES

Korea’s growth rate reached 39.1%. This spans a 22-year period. Officials analyzed data from 2003 to 2024. This growth places Korea right behind China. China’s growth rate was 39.3%. The United States, China, the EU, and Japan also submitted data. These nations form the IP5 group.

Korea also boasts high application volume. It ranks third globally in total applications. The nation filed 702 patents. The US leads the world with 1,528 filings. China holds second place with 839 applications.

KOREAN FIRMS DOMINATE TOP 10

Korean corporations show strong technological leadership. Four institutions appear in the global top 10 list.

  • Samsung Electronics ranks highest. It secured the third overall spot. The firm filed 183 patents.
  • The Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) followed. It holds the sixth position with 85 filings.
  • SK hynix came in seventh. It filed 84 applications.
  • Seoul National University also made the list. The university ranked ninth with 56 filings.

Globally, IBM and Qualcomm led the individual applicant rankings.

CHIPS MIMIC THE HUMAN BRAIN

Neuromorphic semiconductors mimic the human brain. They copy the brain’s neural network structure. This design allows for computations with lower power consumption. They use less power than traditional methods.

Experts expect wide adoption of the technology. Key application fields include Autonomous Driving and intelligent robots. They will also impact biometric recognition and medical diagnostics.

The market is set for massive growth. Last year, the market value was $28.5 million. Analysts project huge expansion by 2030. They forecast a market size of $1.3252 billion. This reflects an average annual growth rate of 89.7%.

Delhi High Court Rejects Interim Patent Block on Semaglutide, Calls Out ‘Evergreening’ Tactics

by

The Delhi High Court has delivered a decisive order in the high-stakes battle over semaglutide, the blockbuster diabetes and weight-loss drug. The court refused to grant Novo Nordisk a temporary injunction against Dr Reddy’s Laboratories (DRL), dealing a major blow to the Danish pharmaceutical giant’s attempt to control the Indian market until 2026. The ruling carries far-reaching implications for patent strategy, market competition, and the future of GLP-1 drugs in India.

The court held that DRL had raised a “credible challenge” to Novo Nordisk’s second patent on semaglutide. It found strong indicators of double-patenting, a practice that Indian law treats as an attempt to “evergreen” expired monopolies. The court’s message was clear: companies cannot use secondary patents to prolong control over blockbuster drugs.

Two Patents, One Molecule: How the Dispute Began

Novo Nordisk held two Indian patents related to semaglutide:

  1. Composition Patent (IN 275964)
    This patent covered the semaglutide molecule itself. It expired in September 2024, opening the door for generic manufacturing.
  2. Formulation Patent (IN 262697)
    This patent claims a specific formulation and delivery system for the same drug. It remains valid until March 2026.

When the core composition patent lapsed, DRL secured regulatory approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to manufacture semaglutide for export. The approval triggered immediate friction. Novo Nordisk rushed to court, claiming that the formulation patent protected not only the delivery mechanism but effectively covered the drug.

It sought an emergency injunction to stop DRL’s manufacturing and export operations. The company argued that any commercial activity—even export—would cause irreparable harm.

The Court’s Ruling: A Firm Stand Against Evergreening

Justice Anish Dayal rejected the injunction request. The court held that DRL’s objections to the formulation patent were strong enough to deny temporary relief to Novo Nordisk.

1. Double-Patenting Concern

The court noted that the formulation patent appeared to reclaim the same invention for which Novo Nordisk’s composition patent had already expired. The claims overlapped heavily.

This amounted to “evergreening”—a tactic where pharmaceutical companies file secondary patents to extend monopoly periods.

Indian patent law, especially after Section 3(d), firmly discourages such strategies.

2. Lack of Inventive Step

The court observed that Novo Nordisk’s claimed improvements in the formulation patent did not appear novel or non-obvious.
The modifications were routine optimizations well known in pharmaceutical science. They did not represent a genuine leap in innovation.

This significantly weakened the validity of the formulation patent.

3. Balance of Convenience Favoured DRL

Since the core patent had expired, the court held that public interest and market competition must be prioritized.

Blocking DRL without conclusive proof of infringement would be unfair, especially when DRL was manufacturing the drug only for export markets.

Exports Allowed, But Indian Market Stays Closed—for Now

The court made a nuanced distinction. DRL may:

  • continue manufacturing semaglutide, and
  • export it freely to international markets.

However, domestic sales remain prohibited until the formulation patent expires in March 2026, unless the patent is invalidated earlier.

This split ruling reinforces India’s position as the world’s largest exporter of affordable generics, while still respecting valid patent rights inside the country.

A Major Win for Generic Manufacturers

The decision strengthens the confidence of Indian pharmaceutical companies entering high-value therapeutic categories. Semaglutide, widely used for Type-2 diabetes and explosive global demand for weight-loss treatments, represents one of the most lucrative drug classes today.

DRL is not alone. Cipla, Sun Pharma, Biocon, and Mankind Pharma are exploring GLP-1 opportunities. The Delhi HC’s ruling sends a bold signal: secondary patents will face strict scrutiny.

Indian courts have repeatedly warned against evergreening. This judgment continues that legacy, following similar rulings in the cases of imatinib, sofosbuvir, and darunavir.

Why This Case Matters Globally

The global pharmaceutical industry is watching India closely. Semaglutide is one of the world’s most valuable drugs, powering Novo Nordisk’s meteoric rise in recent years.

A single ruling from an Indian court can influence:

  • global supply chains,
  • generic entry timelines,
  • price dynamics across continents.

India produces nearly 40% of the world’s generics. Any shift in the patent landscape here disrupts international markets.

By allowing export manufacturing, the court has opened a potential pipeline of affordable semaglutide to emerging markets struggling with diabetes and obesity crises.

What Happens Next?

Novo Nordisk has several options:

  • Appeal before a division bench of the Delhi High Court.
  • Initiate a full trial to defend the validity of the formulation patent.
  • Seek tighter regulatory restrictions on generic manufacturing.

DRL, meanwhile, may accelerate export production and explore challenging the patent’s validity to unlock the domestic market earlier.

Legal experts expect this case to set an important precedent for future GLP-1 patent disputes, especially as rival companies race to launch their own weight-loss drugs.

Conclusion

The Delhi High Court’s rejection of Novo Nordisk’s interim injunction is a striking affirmation of India’s sharp stance against patent evergreening. The ruling protects open competition, enables affordable access through exports, and reinforces India’s leadership in generic pharmaceuticals.

As demand for semaglutide surges worldwide, the judgment could reshape the global supply chain for one of modern medicine’s most influential drug classes.

The Patent Paradox: Why India’s Startup Filing Surge is 83% Failure and All About Optics

by
Fragile gold patent scroll on a precarious foundation, with the number 83% failure rate overlaid, symbolizing the optical illusion of India's startup patent filing surge.

A deep dive into the intellectual property (IP) landscape of India’s booming startup sector reveals a critical gap between ambition and execution, suggesting that the much-lauded surge in patent filings is predominantly a tactical exercise in investor signalling rather than a genuine marker of technological innovation. The core issue, critics argue, is a “crisis of intent” where patents function as “decorative rather than functional” assets.   

While global bodies like the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) have celebrated India’s rapid ascent—the WIPO 2024 report noted a phenomenal 15.7% growth in patent applications in 2023, positioning the country 6th globally with 64,480 filings —the internal data paints a sobering picture of weak follow-through.   

The Data Gap: 83% of Startup Patents Fail to Secure a Grant

Analysis of the startup patent pipeline from 2021 through 2025 reveals a profound drop-off rate, demonstrating that the vast majority of filings are not carried through to completion.   

During this five-year period, Indian startups filed a robust 13,089 patent applications. Yet, only 2,174 of these successfully navigated the examination process to achieve the grant stage. This results in a grant success rate of barely 16.6%, meaning approximately one out of every six startup filings becomes an enforceable, proprietary asset.   

The failure rate is compounded by active abandonment. Nearly 500 startup patent applications were explicitly withdrawn or abandoned early, often due to the filers failing to complete detailed specifications or respond to subsequent office actions required by the Patent Office.   

This pattern extends beyond patents. Startups filed 44,517 trademark applications during the same period, with over 1,300 subsequently abandoned. Analysts suggest this widespread non-prosecution across IP types confirms that the primary function of the filing is “brand optics” rather than a rigorous, long-term IP strategy. The high volume of dropped applications confirms that for many, the intent was temporary and instrumental: the patent filing was merely a transaction used to secure funding, not an investment in an enduring intellectual asset.   

Investor Mandate: Patents as Pitch Deck Tools

The distortion in filing behaviour is traced back to the venture capital (VC) ecosystem’s preference for strong valuation narratives. In competitive fundraising rounds, a pending patent application, particularly a cheap and fast provisional filing, serves as a high-visibility proxy for technological differentiation and market moat potential.   

A provisional patent application, which secures an immediate priority date, is leveraged as a “fast, affordable way to strengthen a fundraising narrative” and “create the appearance of a breakthrough innovation”. This mechanism enables a “Capital first, commitment later” ethos.   

The systemic issue is rooted in the fact that investors often prioritize the inclusion of an IP slide over demanding proof of prosecution commitment or demonstrated R&D investment. As the analysis notes, “Once the funding round closes, priorities may shift,” leading to a predictable loss of enthusiasm for the labour-intensive and expensive work required to turn provisional filings into complete specifications. This rational response by founders—underinvesting in expensive, long-term R&D in favour of cheap, high-volume filing tactics—systematically shifts resources away from core innovation.   

Structural Deficiency: India’s R&D Investment Stagnation

The crisis of intent at the startup level is underpinned by a deep, structural R&D deficit at the national level. The commitment to deep, foundational research necessary to generate truly novel and patentable inventions remains structurally low in India.   

Official data from the Department of Science & Technology (DST) confirms that India’s Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD) as a percentage of GDP stood at 0.64% during the fiscal year 2020–21, having remained stagnant between 0.6% and 0.7% in the preceding years (0.66% in 2018–19 and 2019–20).   

This figure is significantly “below global average and lower than countries like China, South Korea and US”. This structural weakness is compounded by low private sector contribution, which accounted for only 36.4% of the total GERD in 2020–21, in sharp contrast to innovation-leading nations where private industry drives over 70% of R&D expenditure.   

This macro-level underinvestment directly correlates with the micro-level deficiencies, as most startups lack “dedicated research teams, technical drafting expertise, prior-art assessment systems, and time for iterative processes” necessary for rigorous patent prosecution.   

Policy Flaw: Incentives Reward Filing, Not Granting

Current government policies designed to stimulate IP activity, while successful in boosting filing volume, have inadvertently intensified the focus on volume over quality. The government successfully implemented significant fee concessions, including an 80% reduction in patent filing fees for startups, MSMEs, and educational institutions.   

However, the design flaw is that these incentives are tied to the input stage (filing) rather than the output stage (grant or commercialization). By heavily subsidizing the initial filing, the state inadvertently subsidizes the creation of the fundraising narrative for VCs. Once the provisional application is lodged, the startup has secured its priority date and the narrative benefit, but the subsequent costly work of prosecution remains unassisted, cementing the low-commitment behaviour.   

Blueprint for Genuine Innovation: Shifting from Decoration to Depth

To foster genuine innovation and correct the systemic inefficiencies, experts advocate for a strategic overhaul of incentives and infrastructure.   

  • Realign Incentives: Government benefits, including subsidies and fast-track examination provisions, must be decoupled from the act of filing and strategically tied to demonstrable outcomes, such as patent grants, successful long-term renewal, or demonstrable commercial utilization.   
  • Enhance Capacity: Urgent investment in the Patent Office is mandatory, including expansion of examiner capacity and specialized domain expertise. There is a pronounced need for more technically specialized patent officers, particularly in cutting-edge technological areas like AI, biotech, semiconductors, climate-tech, and advanced manufacturing.   
  • Strengthen R&D Culture: The government should offer targeted, co-funded grants and innovation-linked incentives for startups that demonstrate a commitment to establishing and maintaining dedicated R&D teams or formalized collaboration with research institutions.   
  • Promote Co-patenting: Actively promoting policy frameworks that encourage joint patent filings (co-patenting) between startups and premier academic/research institutions, such as the IITs and national labs, would guarantee a higher technical standard for the filings and create structured pathways for knowledge transfer.   

The conclusion remains clear: for India to genuinely transition from an IP volume leader to a global innovation power, the focus must shift from decorative filings to functional intellectual assets. Only then can “depth replace decoration” and solidify India’s reputation as a serious, quality-driven innovation hub.   

Parliamentary Panel Pushes for Patent Commercialisation Hubs in IITs

by

A Parliamentary panel has recommended the creation of Patent Commercialisation Hubs at Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to transform academic research into market-ready products. The proposal comes from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce in its 192nd report, highlighting the need to strengthen India’s intellectual property ecosystem.

Bridging the Innovation Gap

The committee noted that while India has seen a surge in patent filings from universities and research institutions, many innovations remain unutilised. By setting up these hubs, IITs can provide infrastructure, mentorship, and technical guidance to convert patents into viable products.

The panel also urged the government to introduce matching grants for innovators. These grants would help researchers and startups build prototypes, making their technologies attractive for industry partnerships.

Incubation and Investor Linkages

The report suggested establishing Patent-to-Product Incubation Centres at IITs. These centres would offer seed funding, lab facilities, and business mentorship. More importantly, they would connect innovators with venture capitalists and private investors, ensuring that promising technologies scale effectively.

Government’s Current Measures

The Ministry of Commerce pointed out several existing initiatives. The Indian Patent Advanced Search System (inPASS) allows stakeholders to explore patents and identify potential licensing opportunities (inPASS). Patent holders can voluntarily declare their willingness to license inventions, helping industries adopt innovative solutions.

Additionally, the government has slashed patent renewal fees by 80% for startups, MSMEs, and educational institutions. This step reduces financial pressure on smaller innovators and promotes long-term patent protection.

Why It Matters

India’s educational institutions filed over 19,000 patents in FY 2023, accounting for 23% of total filings. This marks a sharp rise from 7,200 in FY 2022. Yet, challenges such as long patent approval timelines—around 51 months—continue to hamper innovation.

The proposed hubs can bridge this gap by ensuring patents are not just filed but also commercialised. Such efforts could position India as a stronger global player in innovation.

Outlook

If implemented, these hubs could redefine India’s innovation ecosystem. IITs, with their research capabilities and industry linkages, are well-placed to lead this initiative. The move aligns with India’s ambition to strengthen its intellectual property rights (IPR) regime and drive economic growth through technology-driven enterprises.

India Poised to Play Pivotal Role in Global 6G Development: Scindia

by

India is positioning itself as a key contributor to the future of global telecommunications, with significant advancements in 6G technology research and innovation.

Speaking at a telecom innovation forum in the national capital, Scindia revealed that India aims to account for 10% of global 6G patents by the time international protocols are finalized in 2027. “India has already made notable progress in the 6G space, with two of its proposals being accepted. Our ambition is to shape the global standard by contributing at least one-tenth of the total patents,” the minister stated.

India’s 6G ambitions are guided by a vision of ubiquitous and equitable connectivity, ensuring that the transformative potential of advanced networks reaches every corner of the country. Unlike previous generations of mobile networks that primarily served urban and industrial centers, India’s 6G strategy emphasizes inclusivity and rural integration.

“The focus is on making 6G not just a technological milestone but a tool for social empowerment,” Scindia said. “We are not merely catching up with the world — we are aiming to lead through innovation and inclusive design.”

India’s commitment to innovation has been central to its recent telecom advancements. The establishment of the Bharat 6G Vision, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023, laid out a roadmap for indigenous development of 6G technology with a timeline that aligns with global efforts. Since then, India has ramped up investment in research, encouraged collaboration between academic institutions and industry, and fostered public-private partnerships.

The country’s contributions are being recognized on the international stage, with Indian researchers and technologists playing an increasingly prominent role in discussions held by global standard-setting bodies such as the ITU and 3GPP.

Scindia also pointed to India’s robust telecom infrastructure, which has evolved rapidly with the rollout of 5G services across major cities and towns. This foundational network, he said, is crucial for testing and deploying future 6G applications, which are expected to support ultra-low latency, high-speed data transfer, and seamless integration of AI and machine-to-machine communications.

Industry experts believe that 6G will revolutionize connectivity by enabling technologies like holographic communication, smart transportation systems, and immersive virtual environments. With its growing talent pool, strategic vision, and strong policy support, India is well on its way to becoming a global hub for 6G innovation.

As the world moves closer to defining the next frontier of wireless communication, India’s proactive engagement and leadership could help reshape the digital landscape — not only within its borders but also on the global stage.