Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 10,973,934
Introduction
The United States Patent 10,973,934, titled "Gadolinium bearing PCTA-based contrast agents," is a significant patent in the field of medical imaging, particularly in the development of contrast agents used in MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) procedures. Here, we will delve into the details of the patent's scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Patent Overview
This patent, issued on April 13, 2021, pertains to the invention of gadolinium-bearing PCTA (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid) based contrast agents. These agents are crucial for enhancing the contrast of structures or fluids within the body in MRI scans, thereby aiding in the diagnosis of various medical conditions[1][4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several key claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- The patent claims the RRR/SSS pair of enantiomers of Gd(PCTA-tris-glutaric acid) and the single enantiomers of this pair. These enantiomers are significant because they can be used to create contrast agents with specific properties[1][4].
Dependent Claims
- The patent also includes dependent claims that specify various aspects of the invention, such as the preparation methods, pharmaceutical compositions, and the use of these contrast agents in medical imaging. These claims provide additional details on how the invention can be implemented and utilized[1][4].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by the claims and the specification provided.
Enantiomers and Their Significance
The patent focuses on the enantiomers of Gd(PCTA-tris-glutaric acid), which are stereoisomers that are mirror images of each other. The RRR/SSS pair and the single enantiomers are crucial for their potential in creating contrast agents with improved safety and efficacy profiles[1][4].
Pharmaceutical Compositions
The patent describes pharmaceutical compositions that include the gadolinium-bearing PCTA-based contrast agents. These compositions are formulated to be pharmaceutically acceptable, meaning they are safe for use in humans and can be administered in various forms[1][4].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US 10,973,934 involves several key aspects:
Prior Art and Related Patents
The patent builds upon prior art related to gadolinium-based contrast agents. Other patents in this field have focused on different chelating agents and their applications in medical imaging. The unique aspect of this patent lies in the specific enantiomers and their pharmaceutical compositions[1][4].
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Patent claims must be construed in accordance with legal principles. The meaning and scope of the claims are determined based on the ordinary and customary meaning of the terms to a person of ordinary skill in the art, as well as the context provided by the specification and the patent's prosecution history[2].
Metrics for Measuring Patent Scope
Research has shown that patent scope can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count. Narrower claims, like those in this patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Impact on the Medical Imaging Field
The invention described in US 10,973,934 has significant implications for the medical imaging field.
Enhanced Diagnostic Capabilities
The gadolinium-bearing PCTA-based contrast agents can enhance the diagnostic capabilities of MRI scans by providing clearer images of internal structures and fluids. This can lead to more accurate diagnoses and better patient outcomes[1][4].
Safety and Efficacy
The specific enantiomers claimed in the patent may offer improved safety and efficacy profiles compared to other contrast agents. This is crucial in reducing the risks associated with the use of these agents in medical procedures[1][4].
Conclusion
The United States Patent 10,973,934 is a critical contribution to the field of medical imaging, particularly in the development of gadolinium-based contrast agents. Understanding the scope and claims of this patent is essential for appreciating its impact on the medical imaging landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Specific Enantiomers: The patent claims the RRR/SSS pair of enantiomers and single enantiomers of Gd(PCTA-tris-glutaric acid).
- Pharmaceutical Compositions: The patent describes pharmaceutical compositions that are pharmaceutically acceptable.
- Legal and Regulatory Considerations: Claims are construed based on ordinary and customary meaning and the context provided by the specification and prosecution history.
- Impact on Medical Imaging: The invention enhances diagnostic capabilities and may offer improved safety and efficacy profiles.
FAQs
Q1: What is the main subject of United States Patent 10,973,934?
A1: The main subject is the invention of gadolinium-bearing PCTA-based contrast agents used in MRI scans.
Q2: What are the key claims of the patent?
A2: The patent claims the RRR/SSS pair of enantiomers and single enantiomers of Gd(PCTA-tris-glutaric acid), as well as their pharmaceutical compositions.
Q3: How does the patent impact the medical imaging field?
A3: The patent enhances diagnostic capabilities by providing clearer images and may offer improved safety and efficacy profiles for contrast agents.
Q4: What metrics can be used to measure the scope of a patent?
A4: Metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be used to measure the scope of a patent.
Q5: What is the significance of enantiomers in this patent?
A5: The enantiomers (RRR/SSS pair and single enantiomers) are significant for their potential in creating contrast agents with improved safety and efficacy profiles.
Sources
- US10973934B2 - Gadolinium bearing PCTA-based contrast agents - Google Patents
- Case 1:17-cv-00030-LY Document 72 Filed 06/08/18 - USCOURTS
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- US10973934B2 - Gadolinium bearing PCTA-based contrast agents - Google Patents (French version)
