Regional differences in patent examination standards for photodynamic therapy (PDT) ——Empirical analysis based on patents of treatment methods for bladder cancer

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), as an interdisciplinary therapeutic innovation, faces critical technology transfer barriers due to fragmented patent examination standards. This study examines the Chinese patent "Photodynamic therapy method for bladder cancer" (involving the use of photosensitizer, route of administration and composition) and its global family members, comparing examination outcomes across China, the US, and Europe, especially focuses on divergent interpretations of administration parameters (site/mode) in drug claim, and reveals three systemic contradictions: (1) inadequate medical association engagement, (2) divergent cognition on technicians of the field, and (3) discrepancies in examination standards. This research provides empirical evidence to optimize collaborative mechanisms for medical expertise engagement, consistent cognition on technicians, and unified criteria on inventive step assessment, facilitating global protection and commercial translation of PDT innovations through enhanced alignment in patent examination practices across the world.