Patent: 6,572,852

Summary for Patent: 6,572,852

Title:	Method for suppressing inflammatory responses by administering TNFR
Abstract:	Tumor necrosis factor receptor proteins, DNAs and expression vectors encoding TNF receptors, and processes for producing TNF receptors as products of recombinant cell culture, are disclosed.
Inventor(s):	Smith; Craig A. (Seattle, WA), Goodwin; Raymond G. (Seattle, WA), Beckmann; M. Patricia (Poulsbo, WA)
Assignee:	Immunex Corporation (Seattle, WA)
Application Number:	09/758,124
Patent Claims:	see list of patent claims

Analyzing the Claims and Patent Landscape of United States Patent 6,572,852

Introduction

United States Patent 6,572,852, though not directly provided in the sources, can be analyzed within the context of similar patents and the broader patent landscape related to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and its receptors. This analysis will delve into the key aspects of such patents, the claims typically associated with them, and the overall patent landscape in this technological area.

Background of TNF and TNF Receptors

TNF is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a crucial role in immune responses and inflammation. It exists in both membrane-bound and soluble forms, and its activity is mediated through interaction with its receptors, TNFR1 and TNFR2[2].

Claims Analysis

Patents related to TNF and its receptors, such as those described in US 7,605,233 B2 and US 7,785,834 B2, typically include claims that focus on several key areas:

Ligands and Binding

• Claims often involve ligands that bind to TNF, modifying its biological activity. For example, ligands that inhibit the induction of fibrin deposition in tumors and endothelial procoagulant activity are common[1].

Soluble TNF Receptors

• Soluble TNF receptors (sTNFRs) are another focus. These are decoy receptors that bind to TNF, preventing it from signaling to cells. Claims may include the use of these sTNFRs in treating inflammatory diseases[2].

Therapeutic Applications

• Claims may also cover the therapeutic use of TNF antagonists, including their application in treating various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

Patent Landscape Analysis

Geographical Spread

• The geographical spread of patents related to TNF and its receptors is global, with significant contributions from researchers and companies in the United States, Europe, and Australia. This indicates a highly internationalized research and development effort in this area[1][2].

Saturation of Patent Space

• The patent space related to TNF and its receptors is highly saturated. Numerous patents have been filed and granted over the years, covering various aspects of TNF biology, ligand design, and therapeutic applications. This saturation makes it challenging to secure new patents without significant innovation or differentiation[3].

New Entrants and Market Dynamics

• Despite the saturation, new entrants continue to emerge, particularly in niche areas such as specific disease treatments or novel delivery mechanisms. For instance, companies focusing on local administration of therapeutic agents, like complement inhibitors, may find opportunities in underserved niches[4].

Time-Slicing and Trends

• Analyzing the patent landscape over time reveals trends and shifts in research focus. For example, there may be a decrease in patent filings for certain technologies as they mature, while new areas of research gain prominence. Time-slicing can help identify these trends and guide strategic decisions[3].

Strategic Insights from Patent Landscape Analysis

Identifying Niche Areas

• A comprehensive patent landscape analysis can uncover underappreciated niche areas. For instance, while the broader TNF space may be saturated, specific applications like the use of sTNFRs in treating rare inflammatory diseases might offer opportunities for innovation and patenting[3].

Competitor Analysis

• Understanding the patent portfolios of competitors is crucial. Companies with a significant focus on TNF-related technologies can be identified, and their strategies can be analyzed to inform business decisions. For example, a company with a high percentage of its patent portfolio dedicated to a niche technology may indicate a strong market position in that area[3].

Patentability and Innovation

• Given the high saturation of the patent space, conducting thorough patentability searches and landscape analyses is essential. These analyses help in identifying potential prior art and guiding the development of new, patentable innovations. This approach ensures that new claims are novel and non-obvious, increasing the likelihood of patent approval[3].

Key Takeaways

• Highly Saturated Market: The patent space related to TNF and its receptors is highly saturated, making it challenging to secure new patents.
• Niche Opportunities: Despite saturation, there are opportunities in niche areas such as specific disease treatments or novel delivery mechanisms.
• Global Research Effort: The research and development in this area are highly internationalized.
• Time-Slicing and Trends: Analyzing patent trends over time can help identify shifts in research focus and guide strategic decisions.
• Competitor Analysis: Understanding competitors' patent portfolios is crucial for informing business and R&D strategies.

FAQs

1. What is the primary focus of patents related to TNF and its receptors?

   • The primary focus is on ligands that bind to TNF, modifying its biological activity, and soluble TNF receptors used in treating inflammatory diseases.

2. How saturated is the patent space for TNF-related technologies?

   • The patent space is highly saturated, with numerous patents filed and granted over the years, making it challenging to secure new patents without significant innovation.

3. What are some niche areas in the TNF patent landscape?

   • Niche areas include specific disease treatments, such as rare inflammatory diseases, and novel delivery mechanisms like local administration of therapeutic agents.

4. Why is time-slicing important in patent landscape analysis?

   • Time-slicing helps identify trends and shifts in research focus over time, guiding strategic decisions and informing R&D strategies.

5. How can a comprehensive patent landscape analysis benefit business and R&D management?

   • It provides strategic insights, helps in identifying opportunities and risks, and guides long-term decisions about technology development and patent prosecution.

Sources

1. United States Patent 7,605,233 B2 - Tumour Necrosis Factor Binding Ligands[1]
2. United States Patent 7,785,834 B2 - Soluble TNF Receptors and Their Use in Treatment of Disease[2]
3. Patent Landscape Analysis - Uncovering Strategic Insights[3]
4. WO2008097525A2 - Local Complement Inhibition for Treatment of Complement-Mediated Disorders[4]

Details for Patent 6,572,852

Applicant	Tradename	Biologic Ingredient	Dosage Form	BLA	Approval Date	Patent No.	Expiredate
Immunex Corporation	ENBREL	etanercept	For Injection	103795	November 02, 1998		2009-09-05
Immunex Corporation	ENBREL	etanercept	For Injection	103795	May 27, 1999		2009-09-05
Immunex Corporation	ENBREL	etanercept	Injection	103795	September 27, 2004		2009-09-05

International Patent Family for US Patent 6,572,852

Country	Patent Number	Estimated Expiration
South Africa	907072
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	9406476
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)	9319777