Beware the patent cliff!

Blockbusters have been driving growth in the pharma sector. But looming patent losses are forcing companies in new directions

Via Pharmaceuticals, Inc, a biotechnology company focused on the development of compounds for the treatment of cardiovascular and metabolic disease, announced the issuance of United States Patent No 7,495,024 entitled 'Phenylalkyl N-Hydroxyureas for Combating Atherosclerotic Plaque', covering the use of VIA's lead compound, VIA-2291, for the treatment of atherosclerosis. This patent is also pending in other major markets worldwide.

The Chennai Patent Office has dismissed the pre-grant opposition filed way back in 2006 by two activist groups against Roche's Indian patent application on antiviral drug Valcyte (valganciclovir hydrochloride).

Cytori Therapeutics received a Notice of Allowance from the United States Patent and Trademark Office on a patent application which broadens protection of the company's Celution System.