Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 10,562,934
Introduction
United States Patent 10,562,934, titled "Modulation of complement activity," is a patent that delves into the realm of therapeutic modulators of the complement system. This analysis will explore the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Details
The patent, US 10,562,934 B2, was published on February 18, 2020, and is assigned to a specific entity, although the assignee is not specified in the provided sources[2][5].
Invention Description
The patent describes modulators of complement activity and methods for using these modulators as therapeutics. The complement system is a part of the immune system that helps to clear pathogens from the body. Modulating this system can be crucial in treating various diseases where the complement system is overly active or dysfunctional.
Scope of the Patent
Claim Structure
The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which are the legally binding descriptions of the invention. The claims include:
- Independent Claims: These are the broadest claims that define the invention. For example, claims might include specific polypeptides or methods of using these polypeptides to modulate complement activity[2][5].
- Dependent Claims: These claims are narrower and build upon the independent claims, often specifying particular aspects or embodiments of the invention.
Metrics for Measuring Patent Scope
Research suggests that the scope of a patent can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count. Narrower claims at publication are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Claims Analysis
Key Components
The claims of US 10,562,934 B2 include:
- Polypeptides: The patent claims specific polypeptides designed to modulate complement activity. These polypeptides are described in detail, including their amino acid sequences and structural features[2][5].
- Methods of Use: The patent also claims methods for using these polypeptides as therapeutics, including their application in treating diseases related to complement system dysregulation.
- Therapeutic Effects: The claims highlight the therapeutic effects of these modulators, such as reducing inflammation, preventing tissue damage, and treating various diseases.
Prior Art and Novelty
The patent must demonstrate novelty and non-obviousness over prior art. The prior art keywords listed include terms related to polypeptides, complement activation, and therapeutic methods, indicating that the invention builds upon existing knowledge in the field but introduces new and innovative aspects[2].
Patent Landscape
Global Context
The patent landscape for complement system modulators is part of a broader global trend in biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation. The USPTO data indicates that patents in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors are increasingly important, with a significant portion of patents being granted to multinational firms and research institutions[4].
Competitors and Related Patents
The landscape includes other patents and research focused on modulating the complement system. For instance, other inventors and companies may have patents on similar or related technologies, which could impact the market and licensing strategies for US 10,562,934 B2.
International Patenting Trends
The USPTO data shows that international differences in patent laws and regulations can influence the choice of patent location. For example, countries with favorable tax policies on corporate and patent income may attract more patent filings from multinational firms[4].
Search and Analysis Tools
USPTO Resources
To analyze the patent landscape further, tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Common Citation Document (CCD) can be utilized. These tools provide access to prior art, related applications, and citation data, helping to understand the broader context of the patent[1].
International Databases
Searching international patent offices such as the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) can also provide insights into global patenting trends and potential competitors[1].
Economic and Innovation Impact
Patent Ownership and Sector Distribution
The patent data from the USPTO indicates that the majority of patents are owned by private sector companies, with a smaller share held by individuals, academic institutions, and government entities. This distribution reflects the economic motivations behind patenting, particularly in high-technology and knowledge-intensive industries[4].
Industry-Level Measures
The patenting activity in industries such as high-technology manufacturing and commercial knowledge-intensive services is significantly higher. These industries drive innovation and are likely to be key players in the market for complement system modulators[4].
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The scope of US 10,562,934 B2 is defined by its claims, which include specific polypeptides and methods for their therapeutic use.
- Claims Analysis: The claims are structured to ensure novelty and non-obviousness over prior art, with a focus on therapeutic applications.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a global trend in biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation, with significant competition from multinational firms and research institutions.
- Search and Analysis Tools: Utilizing USPTO and international patent databases is crucial for understanding the broader patent landscape.
- Economic Impact: The patent reflects the economic motivations of private sector companies and the innovation trends in high-technology and knowledge-intensive industries.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 10,562,934 B2?
A: The main subject is the modulation of complement activity through specific polypeptides and therapeutic methods.
Q: How can the scope of a patent be measured?
A: The scope can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count.
Q: What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape for US 10,562,934 B2?
A: Tools include the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, Common Citation Document (CCD), and international patent databases like EPO, JPO, and WIPO.
Q: Who are the primary owners of patents in the United States?
A: The primary owners are private sector companies, followed by individuals, academic institutions, and government entities.
Q: How does international patenting impact the choice of patent location?
A: International differences in taxes on corporate and patent income can influence the choice of patent location for multinational firms.
Sources
- USPTO: Search for patents - USPTO. (2018, October 18).
- Google Patents: US10562934B2 - Modulation of complement activity - Google Patents.
- SSRN: Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Search eLibrary :: SSRN. (2016, September 29).
- NSF: Chapter 8 - Invention, Knowledge Transfer, and Innovation.
- Unified Patents Portal: US-10562934-B2 - Unified Patents Portal.
