United States Patent 11,160,888: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 11,160,888, titled "PET tracer for imaging of neuroendocrine tumors," is a significant innovation in the field of medical diagnostics. This patent describes a radiolabeled peptide-based compound designed for diagnostic imaging using Positron Emission Tomography (PET). Here, we delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Motivation
Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a diverse group of cancers that arise from neuroendocrine cells. Diagnosing and monitoring these tumors can be challenging due to their heterogeneous nature. The development of specific PET tracers has revolutionized the diagnostic approach by providing high sensitivity and specificity for detecting NETs.
Scope of the Patent
Diagnostic Imaging
The patent focuses on a radiolabeled peptide-based compound that targets somatostatin receptors, which are often overexpressed in neuroendocrine tumors. This compound is designed for in vivo diagnostic imaging, particularly using PET, to identify and monitor NETs[1].
Target Dose and Administration
The patent specifies that the compound is administered with a target dose in the range of 150-350 MBq, with a preferred range of 150-250 MBq, and optimally between 191-210 MBq. This precise dosing is crucial for effective imaging without undue radiation exposure to the patient[1].
Detection Methods
The compound can be detected using various imaging techniques, including PET, single photon emission tomography (SPECT), and gamma cameras. This versatility allows for different clinical settings and preferences[1].
Claims of the Patent
Diagnostic Use
The patent claims the use of the compound for diagnostic purposes, specifically for imaging neuroendocrine tumors. This includes detecting somatostatin receptor overexpression in tumors, which is a hallmark of many NETs[1].
Radiopharmaceutical Preparation
The claims extend to the preparation of a radiopharmaceutical composition using the compound or its pharmaceutically acceptable salts. This composition is intended for use in radiographic imaging methods to visualize tumor tissues or metastases[1].
Monitoring Treatment
The patent also covers the use of the compound for monitoring the effectiveness of treatments targeting neuroendocrine tumors. By detecting changes in the uptake of the compound by cell receptors, clinicians can assess the response to therapy[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Technologies
The development of this PET tracer is part of a broader landscape of diagnostic imaging technologies targeting somatostatin receptors. Other patents, such as US-20040044177-A1, also describe peptide compounds with improved binding affinity to these receptors, highlighting the ongoing research and innovation in this area[5].
Global Patent System
The patent landscape is influenced by international collaborations and harmonization efforts. Tools like the Common Citation Document (CCD) and Global Dossier facilitate the integration of global patent systems, ensuring that innovations like this PET tracer can be efficiently protected and accessed worldwide[4].
Clinical Significance
Diagnostic Accuracy
The use of this PET tracer significantly enhances the diagnostic accuracy for neuroendocrine tumors. By targeting somatostatin receptors, it provides a specific and sensitive method for identifying and staging NETs, which is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Patient Outcomes
Improved diagnostic imaging can lead to better patient outcomes by enabling early detection and precise monitoring of tumor progression. This can result in more targeted and effective treatments, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life for patients with NETs.
Economic and Legal Considerations
Patent Protection
The protection afforded by this patent is critical for the commercialization and widespread adoption of the PET tracer. It ensures that the inventors and their assignees can recoup their investment in research and development.
Small Claims Patent Court
The discussion around a small claims patent court, as studied by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), highlights the need for efficient and cost-effective mechanisms for resolving patent disputes. This could impact the enforcement and defense of patents like US 11,160,888 in the future[2].
Data and Research
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides valuable insights into patent scope and claims. While not directly related to this specific patent, it offers a framework for analyzing the complexity and breadth of patent claims, which can be applied to understand the scope of US 11,160,888[3].
Key Takeaways
- Specific Targeting: The patent describes a radiolabeled peptide-based compound specifically targeting somatostatin receptors for PET imaging of neuroendocrine tumors.
- Precise Dosage: The compound is administered with a target dose range of 150-350 MBq, with optimal dosing between 191-210 MBq.
- Versatile Detection: The compound can be detected using PET, SPECT, and gamma cameras.
- Clinical Impact: This innovation enhances diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes by providing a sensitive and specific method for identifying and monitoring NETs.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of diagnostic imaging technologies and is influenced by global patent system harmonization efforts.
FAQs
What is the primary use of the compound described in US Patent 11,160,888?
The primary use is for diagnostic imaging of neuroendocrine tumors using Positron Emission Tomography (PET).
What is the target dose range for administering the compound?
The target dose range is 150-350 MBq, with a preferred range of 150-250 MBq, and optimally between 191-210 MBq.
How is the compound detected?
The compound can be detected using PET, single photon emission tomography (SPECT), and gamma cameras.
What is the significance of somatostatin receptors in this patent?
Somatostatin receptors are often overexpressed in neuroendocrine tumors, making them a specific target for the radiolabeled peptide-based compound.
How does this patent impact patient outcomes?
By providing a sensitive and specific method for diagnosing and monitoring neuroendocrine tumors, this patent can lead to better patient outcomes through early detection and targeted treatments.
Sources
- US11160888B2 - PET tracer for imaging of neuroendocrine tumors - Google Patents
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - Administrative Conference of the United States
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
- US-20040044177-A1 - Unified Patents Portal
