Microbix Biosystems Inc., an innovator of biological products and technologies, has successfully defended all of its Virusmax patent claims against a challenge by Novartis at a hearing  at the European Patent Office (EPO) in Munich, Germany.

Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, challenged Microbix’ invention of its manufacturing process trademarked Virusmax, on several grounds. The EPO Tribunal agreed with Microbix’ position and ruled that all claims are novel and inventive. Microbix therefore retains all of its patent claims as originally granted.

Vaughn Embro-Pantalony, president and chief executive officer said, “We were surprised when Novartis filed their challenge in 2011, however we remained confident in our position and we expected this outcome. The EPO’s decision reinforces that Virusmax is a novel and inventive technology that provides significant manufacturing efficiencies to the influenza vaccine industry, thereby increasing global vaccine supply.  Defending intellectual property rights is a strategic imperative for Microbix and we are pleased with this outcome.”

Microbix has previously announced that it has filed a patent infringement proceeding against Novartis in the United States and this action is proceeding.

Microbix Biosystems Inc. specializes in the development of biological solutions, including products for vaccine and diagnostics markets worldwide. The company owns intellectual property for an approved biological drug, a vaccine technology and an animal reproduction technology.