Michael Houghton

Danville, CA, United States of America

Michael Houghton

Nobel Prize

This inventor holds 110 USPTO granted patents and 16 published patent applications, plus 5 CIPO patents and 12 EPO patents, primarily in Hepatitis C Research (CPC class 435-5). Top assignees: Chiron Corporation, University of Alberta, Novartis Vaccines & Diagnostics, Gmbh. Active years: 1988-2026. Nobel Prize laureate.

IDiyas Innovation Intelligence. (2026). Inventor Profile: Michael Houghton. Retrieved from https://idiyas.com/inventor/michael-houghton

Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile

Calculating rank
USPTO Granted Patents = 110 

% Patents Active = 90.9

 

 

Average Co-Inventor Count = 3.7

ph-index = 28

Forward Citations = 2,851(Granted Patents)

Forward Citations (Not Self Cited) = 2,712(Dec 10, 2025)


Inventors with similar research interests:


Location History:

  • Oakland, CA (US) (1997 - 1999)
  • Berkeley, CA (US) (2004 - 2011)
  • Emeryville, CA (US) (2014 - 2016)
  • Edmonton, CA (2017 - 2023)
  • Danville, CA (US) (1988 - 2024)
  • Newark, DE (US) (2009 - 2024)

Company Filing History:


Years Active: 1988-2026

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Areas of Expertise:
Hepatitis C Virus
Immunogenic Compositions
Alzheimer's Disease
Biomarkers
Cardiomyocytes
Immunomodulatory Peptides
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Inflatable Polymer Devices
Non-Shortening Balloons
Small Interfering RNA
HCV Fusion Polypeptides
Norovirus Antigens
110 patents (USPTO):Explore Patents

Title: Michael Houghton: Pioneer in Hepatitis C Research and Innovation

Introduction: Michael Houghton, a prominent inventor located in Danville, CA, has made significant contributions to the field of virology, particularly in research related to the hepatitis C virus (HCV). With an impressive portfolio of 99 patents, his innovative work has opened new avenues in the diagnosis and treatment of HCV.

Latest Patents: Among Houghton’s latest patents are two groundbreaking inventions focused on the hepatitis C virus. The first patent describes heterodimeric polypeptides that comprise HCV E1 and E2 polypeptides, detailing methods for producing affinity tagged and untagged HCV E1/E2 heterodimers. These innovations not only advance the understanding of HCV but also propose methods to induce an immune response against the virus.

The second patent outlines immunogenic compositions that include T-cell epitopes conserved among various HCV genotypes. This research aims to enhance immune responses in individuals exposed to HCV polypeptides, showcasing Houghton’s commitment to addressing global health challenges linked to viral infections.

Career Highlights: Michael Houghton has had a distinguished career in vaccine development and viral research. His professional journey includes pivotal roles at major organizations such as Chiron Corporation and Novartis Vaccines & Diagnostics GmbH. His work at these institutions has significantly shaped the landscape of antiviral research and vaccine development.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, Houghton has collaborated with renowned scientists such as Qui-Lim Choo and George Kuo. These partnerships have led to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in the understanding of hepatitis C, making a lasting impact on both research and public health.

Conclusion: Michael Houghton’s extensive work and impressive patent portfolio underscore his dedication to innovation in the fight against hepatitis C. His inventions continue to inspire further research and development in virology, enabling significant strides toward effective treatments and potential vaccines for a condition that affects millions worldwide.

Profile summary based on public USPTO records.
Data Sources: USPTO Patent Grant XML, Patent Center, EPO & CIPO • Normalized by IDiyas Innovation Graph. Methodology & provenance architecturePlease report any incorrect information to [email protected]
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