United States Patent 10,676,435: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 10,676,435, issued on June 9, 2020, is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the treatment of SIPI receptor-associated disorders. This patent, assigned to Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc., involves a crystalline L-arginine salt of a specific compound and its methods of use. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by a team of researchers including Anthony C. Blackburn, Ryan O. Castro, Mark Allen Hadd, You-An Ma, Antonio Garrido Montalban, Jaimie Karyn Rueter, Lee Alani Selvey, and Sagar Raj Shakya, with Carlos Marlon also contributing. The assignee of this patent is Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a company known for its innovative approaches in treating various medical conditions[2].
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers the crystalline L-arginine salt of (R)-2-(7-(4-cyclopentyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyloxy)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclo-penta [b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid, hereafter referred to as Compound 1. This compound is designed for use in treating SIPI receptor-associated disorders. The scope includes the exclusive right to the proprietary chemical formulation, which may encompass the drug's brand name, trademark, product dosage form, ingredient formulation, or manufacturing process[2].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the invention and its applications:
- Compound Claims: The patent claims the crystalline L-arginine salt of Compound 1, specifying its chemical structure and crystalline form.
- Method Claims: It includes methods of treating conditions related to the S1P receptor, such as autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, including diseases like multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory bowel disease[2].
- Use Claims: The patent also claims the use of Compound 1 in various therapeutic applications, highlighting its potential in treating a range of medical conditions.
Patent Expiration Dates
The patent is set to expire on January 6, 2036, unless extended or modified through additional filings or litigation. This expiration date is crucial as it determines the period during which Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. holds exclusive rights to the invention[2].
Patent Landscape
Technology Area
This patent falls under the broader category of pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, specifically within the realm of autoimmune and inflammatory disorder treatments. The USPTO classifies such patents under the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) classification system, which helps in analyzing trends in patenting focus over time[1].
Industry Trends
The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive and innovation-driven. Patents like 10,676,435 are critical for companies to protect their intellectual property and maintain a competitive edge. High R&D industries, such as pharmaceuticals, often have high rates of patenting, reflecting their significant investment in research and development[1].
Related Patents
Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has a portfolio of patents related to the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. For example, patents like 11,007,175 and 11,091,435 also cover methods of treating similar conditions, indicating a strategic focus on this therapeutic area[2].
Measuring Patent Scope
The scope of a patent can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count. Narrower claims, as seen in this patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process compared to broader claims[3].
Global Patent System
The global patent system plays a crucial role in the protection and enforcement of patents like 10,676,435. Tools such as the Global Dossier and Common Citation Document (CCD) facilitate the management and comparison of patent applications across different jurisdictions, ensuring consistency and efficiency in the patent process[4].
Search and Analysis Tools
For researchers and practitioners, tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) are invaluable for searching, analyzing, and understanding the patent landscape. These tools provide comprehensive access to prior art, patent family information, and bibliographic data, which are essential for navigating the complexities of patent law[4].
Conclusion
United States Patent 10,676,435 is a significant addition to the pharmaceutical patent landscape, particularly in the treatment of SIPI receptor-associated disorders. Understanding its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is crucial for both the inventors and competitors in the field. This patent highlights the importance of intellectual property protection in driving innovation and ensuring exclusive rights to groundbreaking medical treatments.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers a specific crystalline L-arginine salt and its therapeutic applications.
- Claims: Includes compound, method, and use claims related to SIPI receptor-associated disorders.
- Expiration Date: January 6, 2036.
- Industry Trends: High R&D investment in pharmaceuticals leads to high patenting rates.
- Global Patent System: Tools like Global Dossier and CCD facilitate international patent management.
- Search Tools: USPTO's Patent Public Search and PEDS are essential for patent analysis.
FAQs
What is the main subject of United States Patent 10,676,435?
The main subject is the crystalline L-arginine salt of (R)-2-(7-(4-cyclopentyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)benzyloxy)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclo-penta [b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid, used in treating SIPI receptor-associated disorders.
Who are the inventors and assignees of this patent?
The inventors include Anthony C. Blackburn, Ryan O. Castro, and others, with Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. as the assignee.
What are the key claims of this patent?
The patent includes claims for the compound itself, methods of treating SIPI receptor-associated disorders, and the use of the compound in various therapeutic applications.
When does the patent expire?
The patent is set to expire on January 6, 2036.
How does this patent fit into the broader pharmaceutical industry trends?
This patent reflects the high R&D investment in pharmaceuticals, particularly in autoimmune and inflammatory disorder treatments, and is part of a larger portfolio of patents by Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc. in this therapeutic area.
