Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 11,007,175
Introduction
United States Patent 11,007,175, titled "Methods of treating conditions related to the S1P1 receptor," is a patent that delves into innovative methods for treating various conditions associated with the sphingosine 1-phosphate subtype 1 (S1P1) receptor. This analysis will explore the patent's scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape in which it resides.
Patent Overview
The patent, assigned to a specific entity (though not specified in the provided sources), focuses on therapeutic methods involving the S1P1 receptor. Here is a brief overview:
- Publication Number: US11007175B2
- Filing Date: Derived from the application number US201615541496A, indicating a filing date in 2016.
- Grant Date: The patent was granted, but the exact date is not specified in the sources provided[4].
Claims Analysis
The claims of a patent are crucial as they define the scope of the invention and what is protected by the patent.
Independent Claims
Independent claims are standalone claims that do not rely on other claims for their validity. For Patent 11,007,175, the independent claims typically would include:
- Claim 1: This usually sets the broadest scope of the invention, such as methods for treating S1P1 receptor-associated disorders.
- Subsequent Claims: These may narrow down the scope by specifying particular compounds, dosages, or treatment protocols.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims, adding additional limitations to further define the invention. For example:
- Claim 2: Might specify a particular compound or its acceptable salt, solvate, or hydrate, used in the treatment method.
- Claim 3: Could detail a specific dosage regimen or administration route.
Patent Scope
The scope of a patent is determined by its claims and the description provided in the specification.
Independent Claim Length and Count
Research suggests that narrower claims, as measured by independent claim length and count, are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. Broader claims, on the other hand, may face more scrutiny and potentially longer examination times[3].
Claim Language and Scope
The language used in the claims is critical. For Patent 11,007,175, the claims would need to be precise and clear to avoid ambiguity and ensure enforceability. The scope would be defined by the specific methods, compounds, and treatment protocols outlined.
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape for S1P1 receptor-related treatments is complex and evolving.
Competing Patents
Other patents in the same field may cover similar or overlapping subject matter. For instance, patents related to other sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor subtypes or different therapeutic approaches could be relevant.
Litigation and Validity
Patents are presumed valid under U.S. law (35 USC 282), but they can still face challenges. Litigation, such as that seen in cases like Allergan USA, Inc. v. MSN Laboratories Private Ltd., can arise over issues like obviousness-type double patenting or lack of written description[2].
Examination Process
The examination process for Patent 11,007,175 would have involved several key steps:
Filing and Prosecution
The patent application would have been filed with the USPTO, followed by a period of prosecution where the examiner reviews the application for novelty, non-obviousness, and other statutory requirements.
Continuations and Amendments
The applicant might have filed continuations or amendments to address examiner objections or to clarify the claims. This process can significantly impact the final scope and validity of the patent[1].
Economic and Innovation Impact
Patents like 11,007,175 play a crucial role in incentivizing innovation by providing exclusive rights to the patent holder.
Licensing and Litigation Costs
The breadth and clarity of patent claims can affect licensing and litigation costs. Narrower, clearer claims tend to reduce these costs and promote innovation[3].
Forward Citations and Maintenance Payments
The number of forward citations (citations by later patents) and maintenance payments can indicate the patent's impact and value. Patents with higher forward citations and consistent maintenance payments are generally considered more valuable and influential[3].
Key Takeaways
- Claims and Scope: The claims of Patent 11,007,175 define its scope and protection, with independent claims setting the broadest scope and dependent claims adding specificity.
- Patent Landscape: The patent operates within a complex landscape of competing patents and potential litigation.
- Examination Process: The patent's examination involved filing, prosecution, and possibly continuations or amendments.
- Economic Impact: The patent's clarity and breadth influence its economic impact, including licensing and litigation costs.
FAQs
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What is the primary focus of United States Patent 11,007,175?
- The primary focus is on methods for treating conditions related to the S1P1 receptor.
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How are the claims of a patent structured?
- Claims are structured into independent and dependent claims, with independent claims defining the broadest scope and dependent claims adding additional limitations.
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What factors influence the scope of a patent?
- The scope is influenced by the language and breadth of the claims, as well as the description provided in the specification.
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How does the examination process impact the final patent?
- The examination process, including any continuations or amendments, can significantly impact the final scope and validity of the patent.
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What is the economic impact of a patent like 11,007,175?
- The patent can incentivize innovation by providing exclusive rights, but its economic impact also depends on factors like licensing and litigation costs, which are influenced by the clarity and breadth of the claims.
Cited Sources:
- Carley, M., & Hegde, D. (n.d.). What Is the Probability of Receiving a US Patent? The Yale Journal of Law & Technology.
- United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. (2024). ALLERGAN USA, INC. v. MSN LABORATORIES PRIVATE LTD.
- SSRN. (2016). Patent Claims and Patent Scope.
- Google Patents. (n.d.). US11007175B2 - Methods of treating conditions related to the S1P1 receptor.