intellectual property

Nike-New Balance Patent Lawsuit Paused Amid PTAB Review, Judge Rules

by

A federal judge has paused a high-stakes patent dispute between global sportswear giants Nike Inc. and New Balance Athletics, Inc., granting a temporary stay in litigation as the U.S. Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) reviews several of Nike’s Flyknit patents at the heart of the case.

On June 6, U.S. District Judge Julia E. Kobick ruled in favor of New Balance’s motion to stay the case until August 9, 2025, aligning with the expected PTAB decisions. Nike alleges that New Balance infringed on nine of its Flyknit patents across 61 different shoe models, claiming that the Boston-based company copied its innovative, lightweight knit sneaker technology.

New Balance requested the pause, citing that the PTAB is already actively reviewing six of the nine contested patents. The company argued that a stay would promote judicial efficiency and possibly narrow or eliminate the need for trial if some patents are invalidated.

Judge Kobick, in her ruling, agreed with New Balance’s position, stating that continuing the case while the PTAB deliberates could lead to duplicative proceedings. “Nike has not shown that it will suffer undue prejudice beyond the delay,” Kobick noted, indicating that a short pause would not cause significant harm to the plaintiff.

The judge also highlighted New Balance’s commitment to continue discovery during the stay, including the collection of documents and depositions from international partners. This assurance helped alleviate concerns about lost evidence or unavailable witnesses during the delay.

Nike’s Flyknit technology, first introduced in 2012, is considered a major breakthrough in performance footwear design. The company holds several patents on the material structure, stitching techniques, and manufacturing methods used to create a sock-like fit with minimal waste. Nike contends that New Balance’s knit-based designs unlawfully mirror its patented Flyknit technology.

If the PTAB invalidates some or all of the Flyknit patents under review, it could significantly alter the direction of the case, weakening Nike’s claims and reducing the number of infringing products. Conversely, if the patents are upheld, New Balance may face greater legal exposure and could be required to stop sales or negotiate licensing terms.

The litigation pause is temporary, with proceedings expected to resume following the PTAB’s decisions in August. The outcome will be closely watched by the industry, as it may set a precedent for how similar intellectual property disputes are handled between major athletic brands.

For now, both companies await the PTAB’s judgment, which could either simplify the lawsuit—or set the stage for a prolonged legal battle over innovation in athletic footwear.

Acadia Pharmaceuticals Clinches Patent Victory for NUPLAZID Composition

by

Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: ACAD) secured a critical legal win on Tuesday after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld the validity of the company’s composition of matter patent for its flagship drug, NUPLAZID (pimavanserin). The decision preserves Acadia’s exclusive rights under the ’740 patent and delivers a setback to challengers MSN Laboratories Private Ltd. and MSN Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

The court’s affirmation confirms a lower court ruling that had sided with Acadia in its patent dispute, cementing the biotech firm’s control over the proprietary formulation of NUPLAZID, a therapy approved for the treatment of hallucinations and delusions associated with Parkinson’s disease psychosis.

“This ruling reinforces the strength of our intellectual property portfolio and our commitment to defending the innovation behind NUPLAZID,” said Steve Davis, CEO of Acadia Pharmaceuticals, in a statement following the announcement. “We are pleased that the court has once again validated our patent, enabling us to continue focusing on delivering therapies to patients with unmet medical needs.”

The legal battle stemmed from efforts by MSN Laboratories and its U.S. affiliate to invalidate Acadia’s ’740 patent, which they argued was not novel or sufficiently inventive. The appellate court rejected these arguments, siding with the company and affirming the patent’s enforceability until its expiration.

The timing of the ruling coincides with Acadia’s robust financial performance. Over the last twelve months, the company has reported revenues nearing $1 billion, with a notable 60% gross margin—a figure that highlights operational efficiency and pricing power in the specialty pharmaceutical market. According to InvestingPro, Acadia currently boasts a “GREAT” financial health score, with more than ten positive metrics contributing to its investment outlook.

Legal experts suggest this ruling will deter potential generic competition in the near term, securing continued market exclusivity for Acadia and potentially preserving its revenue stream from NUPLAZID. The drug remains the first and only FDA-approved treatment for Parkinson’s disease psychosis, positioning it as a valuable asset in Acadia’s expanding neuroscience pipeline.

With the legal hurdle now cleared, analysts anticipate that Acadia will intensify its strategic investments in late-stage clinical programs and explore additional therapeutic indications for pimavanserin.

The decision not only strengthens Acadia’s intellectual property rights but also underscores the importance of robust patent protection in the competitive pharmaceutical sector, where market exclusivity often dictates the pace of innovation and return on investment.

About Acadia Pharmaceuticals:
Founded in 1993 and headquartered in San Diego, California, Acadia Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative medicines to address central nervous system disorders. Its lead product, NUPLAZID, is approved in the U.S. and continues to be studied for multiple neuropsychiatric indications.

BITS Law School Launches Centre for Research on Innovation Law for Shared Prosperity (CRISP); Hosts Inaugural Innovation Law & Policy Fellowship Conference

by

In a significant step toward fostering inclusive and future-oriented legal research, BITS Law School has announced the establishment of its Centre for Research on Innovation Law for Shared Prosperity (CRISP). The announcement was made during the inaugural conference of the Innovation Law & Policy Fellowship, held at the BITS Pilani Mumbai Campus.

The launch of CRISP marks a strategic move by BITS Law School to advance interdisciplinary research at the intersection of law, innovation, and equitable development. With India emerging as a global hub for technology and innovation, CRISP aims to explore how legal frameworks can support inclusive and sustainable progress.

The inaugural conference served as both a ceremonial and scholarly beginning for the Innovation Law & Policy Fellowship program. Distinguished legal scholars, industry leaders, policymakers, and research fellows convened to deliberate on how legal systems can evolve in response to rapid technological change while ensuring societal welfare.

Driving Innovation Through Law

Speaking at the event, Founding Dean of BITS Law School, Dr. Rishad Chowdhury, emphasized the role of CRISP in bridging the gap between legal theory and real-world policy challenges. “CRISP is not just a research centre; it is a catalyst for systemic transformation. Our goal is to equip policymakers and institutions with evidence-based insights that help balance innovation with justice, equity, and prosperity for all,” he said.

The centre will prioritize research in areas such as intellectual property, digital governance, biotechnology regulation, climate change law, and access to innovation in marginalized communities. Its core objective is to promote shared prosperity by making legal innovation inclusive and accessible.

Fellowship Program to Build Legal Talent for the Future

The Innovation Law & Policy Fellowship, launched in tandem with CRISP, seeks to nurture emerging legal thinkers committed to reimagining law for the innovation economy. The competitive fellowship offers early-career scholars an opportunity to engage in rigorous research under the mentorship of senior faculty and collaborate with national and international institutions.

Keynote addresses at the conference were delivered by prominent figures in the legal and technology sectors, including Justice (Retd.) Srikrishna, known for his pioneering work in data protection law, and Dr. Arundhati Bhattacharya, Chairperson of the India Digital Innovation Council. Their talks highlighted the urgent need for agile, responsive legal frameworks in the age of AI, data, and decentralized technologies.

A Vision for Inclusive Legal Futures

Participants at the conference discussed pressing challenges such as regulatory sandboxes for startups, innovation gaps in rural India, and global frameworks for equitable technology transfer. Panel sessions featured academics from top law schools, representatives from think tanks, and innovation-focused NGOs.

The event concluded with a roadmap presentation by the CRISP leadership team, outlining upcoming research themes, collaborative projects, and policy engagement initiatives.

About BITS Law School

Established under the aegis of the prestigious Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), BITS Law School is a modern, interdisciplinary institution committed to reshaping legal education and policy-making in India. With CRISP now a part of its expanding research ecosystem, the law school reinforces its mission to contribute meaningfully to society through impactful legal research and advocacy.

As India navigates complex technological and societal shifts, the creation of CRISP positions BITS Law School as a thought leader in developing a legal infrastructure that promotes both innovation and equity.

Uber Faces Patent Lawsuit from Carma Technology Over Ride-Sharing Platform

by

Uber Technologies Inc. is currently facing a patent infringement lawsuit which is  filed by Carma Technology Corp. and Carma Technology Ltd. The lawsuit, initiated on January 14, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, alleges that Uber’s ride-sharing platform infringes upon Carma’s patented technologies related to shared transportation systems. 

Details of the Lawsuit

Carma Technology, known for its innovations in ride-sharing solutions, holds several patents, including U.S. Patent No. US11574542B2, titled “Systems and methods for providing safety for drivers and riders in a shared transport system.”   The company claims that Uber’s platform utilizes technologies that infringe upon this and potentially other patents held by Carma.

The case, docketed as 2:2025cv00029, is presided over by District Judge Rodney Gilstrap.  Carma has demanded a jury trial, seeking damages and an injunction against Uber to prevent further alleged infringement. 

Potential Implications for Uber

If the court rules in favor of Carma Technology, Uber may face significant consequences, including financial penalties and the need to alter its ride-sharing platform to avoid further infringement.  Such changes could disrupt Uber’s operations and impact its position in the competitive ride-sharing market.

This lawsuit adds to Uber’s history of legal challenges related to intellectual property.  Notably, in 2018, Uber settled a lawsuit with Waymo, Alphabet Inc.’s self-driving car unit, agreeing to pay $245 million over allegations of trade secret theft. 

Broader Impact on the Ride-Sharing Industry

The outcome of this case could have broader implications for the ride-sharing industry.  A ruling favoring Carma Technology might prompt other companies to re-evaluate their platforms for potential patent infringements, leading to increased litigation and a push for innovation that respects existing intellectual property rights.

As the case progresses, stakeholders in the ride-sharing sector will be closely monitoring developments, understanding that the verdict could set a precedent affecting technology deployment and competitive dynamics in the industry.

*This article is based on publicly available information as of June 1, 2025.*

India Offers Deep Discounts on Complex Generics, Seeks Patent Reform in US Trade Talks: Report

by

In a strategic move aimed at strengthening its pharmaceutical export prospects and easing trade tensions, India has reportedly offered to provide deep discounts on complex generic drugs to the United States, while simultaneously pressing for reforms to American patent laws that New Delhi claims hinder affordable medicine access.

According to a recent report by trade and industry officials familiar with the matter, these proposals are part of ongoing bilateral trade negotiations between the two countries. India is looking to leverage its globally acclaimed generics manufacturing capabilities to improve access to high-cost medicines in the U.S., in exchange for more equitable treatment of its pharmaceutical exports under U.S. intellectual property regimes.

India’s Push for Patent Law Reforms

At the heart of India’s pitch is a long-standing grievance against certain provisions of U.S. patent law, particularly those that India believes delay or obstruct the entry of cheaper generic alternatives. Indian negotiators are specifically targeting the “evergreening” of patents — a practice where slight modifications to existing drugs are used to extend patent protections, thereby postponing generic competition.

“India has been consistent in advocating for more balanced intellectual property frameworks that ensure both innovation and accessibility,” said a senior official from the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry. “We are asking for reforms that would expedite generic drug approvals and reduce legal bottlenecks in the U.S. patent system.”

New Delhi is also seeking greater transparency and predictability in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) approval process, especially for Indian-manufactured complex generics — drugs that have intricate formulations and require more rigorous regulatory review.

Offering Discounts on Complex Generics

As a goodwill gesture and an incentive for smoother trade ties, India has reportedly offered deep discounts on a select range of complex generics. These include drugs used in the treatment of cancer, HIV, autoimmune disorders, and neurological conditions — therapeutic areas where high prices often prevent wide-scale access in developed and developing countries alike.

The Indian pharmaceutical industry, often referred to as the “pharmacy of the world,” produces nearly 20% of the global supply of generic medicines and is among the largest exporters to the U.S. Indian companies have significantly ramped up their capabilities in complex formulations, biosimilars, and injectables, positioning themselves as viable alternatives to expensive branded counterparts.

A representative from a leading Indian pharma company stated, “We are offering pricing models that could save the U.S. healthcare system billions of dollars annually while ensuring quality and timely supply.”

Implications for Global Drug Pricing

If successful, this initiative could set a precedent for future trade agreements between developed and developing countries where equitable access to medicines is a key concern. It also signals India’s growing clout in shaping global pharmaceutical policy.

Public health experts have welcomed India’s stance, saying that easing U.S. patent restrictions could allow for faster entry of affordable treatments not just in the U.S., but globally, by setting a model that other countries may follow.

However, American pharmaceutical lobbies are likely to resist such changes, citing the need to protect innovation through strong intellectual property protections. “Weakening patent laws could undermine R&D investment,” argued a U.S. industry source, noting that any shift in patent policy would face significant legal and political hurdles in Congress.

Strategic Trade Considerations

This development comes amid broader trade negotiations where both countries are looking to resolve longstanding issues, including tariffs, data localization, and digital services regulation. For India, expanding its pharmaceutical footprint in the U.S. — the world’s largest drug market — is a critical strategic goal.

The Biden administration has shown interest in lowering healthcare costs, and the Indian offer may find resonance amid domestic pressures to make medicines more affordable.

Trade experts believe that the convergence of public health priorities and geopolitical interests could create an opening for a mutually beneficial agreement.

Conclusion

India’s twin strategy of offering affordable complex generics and advocating for patent reform underscores its evolving role in global healthcare diplomacy. As discussions progress, the outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching implications for international trade norms, intellectual property rights, and drug accessibility.

The world will be watching closely as two of the largest democracies navigate this critical intersection of commerce, innovation, and public health.

China Strengthens IP Protection with New Fast-Track Service Center in Shenzhen’s Futian District

by

In a significant move to bolster the nation’s innovation ecosystem, China has approved the establishment of a new national-level fast-track intellectual property rights (IPR) protection service center in Shenzhen’s Futian district. The announcement was made by the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), marking another milestone in the country’s expanding IP protection infrastructure.

Futian, located in the core of Shenzhen’s central business area, is widely recognized for its vibrant fashion industry. The new IPR center is expected to provide significant support to these businesses by offering streamlined services for securing design patents.

According to CNIPA, the new facility will be focused on expediting the design patent application process. Typically, it takes around six months for a design patent to be approved in China. However, with the assistance of the new service center, this duration can be reduced to within three months, enabling companies to protect their innovations more quickly and effectively.

“Fast-track services like those offered by the Futian center are essential for industries where product design changes rapidly and time-to-market is critical,” said a CNIPA spokesperson. “By accelerating the IP protection process, we aim to enhance innovation capabilities and create a more favorable environment for creative industries.”

Design patents represent a substantial portion of China’s intellectual property filings. In 2023 alone, China granted 638,000 design patents, and in 2024, the country maintained its position as the global leader in international design patent filings. The introduction of fast-track services in innovation-driven zones like Futian is seen as a strategic step toward sustaining this momentum.

The center will also contribute to the local economy by attracting more fashion designers and creative talent to the district. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in particular, are expected to benefit, as they often face resource constraints when navigating traditional IP processes. By offering efficient services, the new center aims to reduce barriers for these businesses and empower them to compete on a larger scale.

This initiative is part of a broader national effort to create a comprehensive IP protection

Catheter Precision Secures First U.S. Patent for Surgical Closure Device, LockeT

by


Catheter Precision, Inc. (NYSE American: VTAK), a leading U.S.-based developer of advanced medical devices in the cardiac electrophysiology field, has received a significant boost to its intellectual property portfolio. The company announced today that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued a notice of allowance for its first U.S. patent for LockeT, a specialized surgical closure device designed for orthoscopic entry wounds. The patent application was originally filed in December 2022.

LockeT, a Class 1 device registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is a suture retention product aimed at facilitating wound closure following percutaneous venous procedures. This latest patent strengthens Catheter Precision’s competitive position in the U.S. market and builds upon its growing foundation of international intellectual property protections.

“This first U.S. patent for LockeT complements our portfolio of international patents already granted in China, Europe, and the United Kingdom,” said David Jenkins, Chief Executive Officer of Catheter Precision. “Securing IP protection in the U.S. is particularly meaningful as we continue discussions for product distribution in key global markets, including China and Europe.”

The company is also anticipating regulatory clearance in the form of a CE mark within the current quarter, which would authorize LockeT’s commercial use across European markets. According to Jenkins, this approval is expected to open new revenue opportunities and accelerate market entry efforts abroad.

“We’re encouraged by the reception LockeT has received since its limited rollout in the U.S. late last year,” Jenkins added. “Healthcare systems globally are increasingly looking for devices that can improve clinical outcomes while also reducing overall procedural costs. LockeT is well-positioned to meet these dual objectives.”

LockeT represents a key addition to the company’s product lineup, especially as hospitals and surgical centers seek more effective wound management solutions that minimize complications and enhance recovery.

About Catheter Precision
Based in the United States, Catheter Precision, Inc. is a medical technology company dedicated to improving the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. The company collaborates closely with clinicians to design and deliver innovative electrophysiology devices that raise the standard of care in cardiac procedures.

Forward-Looking Information
This news article contains statements that may be considered forward-looking under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, including those related to product approvals, market adoption, and commercial success. Actual results may differ materially due to various factors, including those detailed in the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Could Intellectual Property Retaliation Be the Game-Changer in Trade Wars?

by
In response to President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, many countries are considering retaliation, primarily through higher tariffs and import restrictions. While these measures may impact the U.S. economy, they also pose risks for the countries imposing them. The goal is to make the pain felt in the U.S. greater than the consequences suffered by the retaliating nation. While this strategy may hold true in many cases, countries like the European Union (EU), Canada, and other trading partners could take a more direct and potentially more damaging approach—targeting the United States’ intellectual property (IP) rights.

Intellectual property, particularly patents and copyrights, has long been a cornerstone of U.S. economic dominance. In 2024, the United States received nearly $150 billion in royalties and licensing fees alone, which makes up over 5% of total after-tax corporate profits. But these fees represent only the direct payments for IP use; they don’t account for embedded costs in products like software and technology, which are often used globally in consumer goods.

One possible retaliatory strategy involves countries announcing that they will no longer respect U.S. patents and copyrights for as long as Donald Trump continues his tariff policies. This kind of action would target U.S. companies that rely on their intellectual property rights for profit, such as tech giants like Microsoft and pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and Merck.

The concept of not honoring foreign patents is not without precedent. During World War I, the U.S. invoked the Trading with the Enemy Act to allow the compulsory licensing of patents held by German companies. This measure allowed U.S. businesses to use these patents without permission, as long as they paid a minimal licensing fee set by the U.S. government. Countries like Canada, the EU, and others could implement a similar policy to challenge the United States’ trade practices.

The potential benefits of this type of retaliation are twofold. First, it would allow consumers in the retaliating countries to access cheaper products—such as generic drugs, which could drastically reduce the cost of life-saving medications like those used in cancer and heart disease treatments. Second, it would lower the cost of everyday goods like computers, by bypassing the licensing fees for software from companies like Microsoft.

For consumers, this could mean cheaper access to essential products and technologies, making it a win-win situation. Imagine having access to affordable generics of expensive drugs or the latest software without the added cost of licensing fees. This approach would directly benefit the people in those countries, and it would provide a powerful counterweight to the economic challenges posed by Trump’s tariffs.

Such an approach would also hit U.S. corporations where it hurts—potentially changing the landscape of global trade in ways that tariffs alone may not. If other nations got accustomed to accessing cheap drugs, software, and entertainment content, it could shift global perceptions of U.S. intellectual property practices. This shift could permanently disrupt the revenue models of many major U.S. companies that rely on high licensing fees and patent monopolies. For instance, without the constraints of patent monopolies, Americans themselves could spend far less on prescription drugs—possibly saving around $550 billion annually.

Use Of Sanskrit for new patent technology

by

The Lok Sabha secretariat has decided to provide simultaneous interpretation of parliamentary proceedings in Six different languages including Sanskrit. This introduction of Sanskrit interpretation in the Lok Sabha is a testament to the government’s efforts to bring the language into the mainstream. This initiative can serve as a stepping stone for broader applications of Sanskrit in official, scientific, and legal frameworks and proceedings. As a language if it can facilitate real-time parliamentary debates, why not intellectual property filings? In current era other countries are embracing their linguistic heritage in scientific and technical field. India has the opportunity to take a pioneering step by integrating Sanskrit into its patent system.
Although, Sanskrit itself is not directly related to patent or the legal world in the same way as English or other common languages for intellectual property. However, there are a few reasons why Sanskrit might come up in discussions related to patents or intellectual property, even if it’s not the primary language of patents:
1. Historical Context: Sanskrit is one of the oldest languages in the world and has a rich historical and cultural significance. If a intellectual property involves traditional knowledge, especially from regions where Sanskrit is or was historically used, it may be relevant to discussions on the protection of ancient wisdom or practices. In such cases, Sanskrit could be part of the research or documentation, especially when related to traditional Indian medicine, spiritual practices, or ancient technologies that might be patented.

2. Patent Language Innovation: The Patents are usually filed in legal and technical languages (like English, Chinese, Japanese etc). The creative solutions or innovations described in patents might reference Sanskrit, particularly when the patent involves innovations related to language processing, machine learning, or translation tools for rare or ancient languages. For example, a patent could be related to systems that analyze Sanskrit texts or make them more accessible through modern technology.

3. Symbolic Significance: The companies might use Sanskrit or Sanskrit-based words as part of trademarks and for branding their products and services, especially in tech or pharma industries. If a brand name or concept connected to Sanskrit were part of a larger patent dispute or related to intellectual property rights, it might show up in legal news or patent filings.

4. Technology for Translation: Patents related to AI and natural language processing might be used to improve or automate the translation of ancient languages like Sanskrit into modern languages. This could be valuable in academia, research, and technology, which could tie into the patent landscape.

It can reflects India’s ability to connect its ancient traditions and knowledge with modern needs. By reviving Sanskrit in this modern context, India could underscore the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in addressing contemporary challenges.