Recently, the Supreme People’s Court of China issued its judgment in case (2023)最高法知行终631号, overturning both the first-instance decision and the ruling of the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA). The Court ordered CNIPA to re-examine Tsinghua University’s invention patent application titled “Andrias davidianus Cartilage Chondroitin Sulfate and Its Extraction Method”.

As one of China’s top universities with a global reputation for research and innovation, Tsinghua University has consistently pursued the protection of its cutting-edge scientific achievements. A central issue in this case was whether supplementary experimental data could be admitted to prove inventiveness. The Supreme People’s Court confirmed that such data should be examined when the technical effects it demonstrates are explicitly or implicitly disclosed in the original application. This clarification provides valuable guidance for future patent cases.

Throughout the proceedings, Tsinghua University was represented by the T&C team whose professional and rigorous approach ensured that the distinctive value of the invention was fully recognized.

The decision not only safeguards the legitimate rights of a leading research institution, but also reflects the judiciary’s firm support for China’s innovation-driven development. With its commitment to professionalism, integrity, and efficiency, T&C will continue to provide high-quality intellectual property services to universities, research institutions, and enterprises alike.