A Markush structure is a representation of chemical structure used to indicate a group of related chemical compounds. They are commonly used in chemistry texts and in patent claims.

What is Markush patent?

The Markush claim allows a patent drafter to select a particular element of the invention wherein that element may be selected from a group of elements all sharing some common characteristic.

What is a Markush group?

A Markush group is a claim drafting tool used to capture various alternative elements or species in a single claim. A typical Markush group is structured using the following language: “selected from the group consisting of A, B, and C” or “selected from the group consisting essentially of A, B, and C.