Certain Systems, Devices, Software, Compositions, Chemicals, and Laboratory Supplies for Studying Proteins; Inv. No. 337-TA-1508

The Commission instituted Investigation No. 337-TA-1508 based on a complaint by Seer, Inc. and The Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Inc. against Nanomics Biotechnology Co., Ltd. The investigation concerns automated proteomics workstations and associated software, assay kits, nanoparticles, reagents, and laboratory consumables alleged to infringe five U.S. patents. This investigation targets core proteomics research tools used to study proteins at scale, including automated workflows, assay kits, and nanoparticle-based reagents. If Seer and Brigham prevail, Nanomics could face a limited exclusion order and cease-and-desist relief affecting importation and U.S. sales of competing proteomics platforms and consumables. Asserted patents are U.S. Patent Nos. 11,435,360; 11,630,112; 12,050,222; 12,228,566; and 12,590,948, with the investigation limited to specified asserted claims in each patent. The accused product category is defined as automated workstations for proteomics and associated software, assay kits for proteomics, and components including nanoparticles, reagents, and laboratory consumables. The Commission directed the ALJ to develop a record on the statutory public-interest factors, and Nanomics must respond within 20 days after service or risk default and potential exclusionary relief.