Texas Jury Issues Decision in Patent Infringement Case

DALLAS—A U.S. District Court jury in the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division, delivered a split decision in the patent infringement case between Mannatech Inc. and Glycoproducts International Inc. Mannatech filed suit in early 2006 alleging Glycoproducts International, formerly Glycobiotics International, infringed on certain Mannatech patents (U.S. Patent Nos. 6,929,807 and 7,157,431) related to Mannatech's Ambrotose® product.

The jury found Glycoproducts was innocent of patent infringement related to the '807 patent, which was originally issued in 2005. However, Glycoproducts was found to have committed willful infringement of the '431 patent, issued in 2007, which was patent-pending when the initial suit was filed; the jury further found for Mannatech in all '431 patent validity issues and trademark infringement claims.

A statement released by Mannatech noted the company would pursue an immediate injunction prohibiting Glycoproducts from further engaging in the production, distribution and sale of its glycomannan product, as well as reimbursement of Mannatech’s legal fees. The company added it currently holds 45 registered patents, including five in the United States, and that the court’s decision adds validation to its ability to protect its intellectual property.

Glycoproducts also issued a statement, which stated because it defended its position against the '807 patent infringement, it would oppose Mannatech’s request for injunction. It also said its product is distinctly different from Mannatech’s product.