Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Time: 10 A.M. Pacific / 12 P.M. Central / 1 P.M. Eastern

Place: Virtual - Zoom

Cost: Complimentary

CLE Credit: We will apply for 1.0 hours of CLE credit for Minnesota, California, Texas and Washington state

Join us as Senior Attorney Alexandra Cavazos, Ph.D., presents, "Precision Functional Claiming: Strategic Use of 35 USC § 112(f) to Protect Biological and Chemical Inventions." Dr. Nicholas P. Lanzatella will moderate.

In the life sciences and chemical arts, means-plus-function claiming under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) is a powerful, but often overlooked, tool. This presentation takes a close look at the doctrinal framework behind § 112(f) and the specific opportunities and challenges it raises for biological molecules, antibodies, and small molecules.

Drawing on Ex Parte Chamberlain and other recent Federal Circuit and PTAB decisions, we'll explore when § 112(f) claims should be used as an alternative (or as a fallback) to genus claims. By attending this talk and learning how to use § 112(f) claims strategically, you can find strategies for building stronger, more resilient patent portfolios.

Dr. Alexandra Cavazos holds a Ph.D. in Molecular and Cell Biology (Biochemistry) from the University of California at Berkeley, and a law degree from UCLA School of Law. She is a Senior Attorney advising biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. 

Dr. Nicholas P. Lanzatella has a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry and a B.S. in Chemical Engineering, in addition to a law degree. Nicholas is a registered patent attorney whose work involves chemical engineering, materials science, and organic chemistry.

Register today to reserve your place for this upcoming presentation.