United States Patent 11,364,260: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 11,364,260, titled "Methods and compositions for administration of iron," is a significant patent in the field of medical treatments, particularly for iron-related conditions. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Title and Abstract
The patent, granted to inventor Mary Jane Helenek, pertains to methods and compositions for the administration of iron, specifically iron carbohydrate complexes, aimed at treating iron-related conditions[5].
Inventor and Assignee
The inventor, Mary Jane Helenek, is credited with developing this innovative approach to iron therapy. The patent does not specify the assignee, but typically, such patents are assigned to the inventor's employer or a company that has supported the research.
Scope of the Patent
Technical Field
This patent falls under the category of pharmaceuticals, specifically within the realm of iron therapy. It addresses the need for effective and safe methods to administer iron, which is crucial for treating conditions such as iron deficiency anemia.
Claims
The patent claims cover several key aspects:
- Compositions: The patent describes specific iron carbohydrate complexes designed to improve the bioavailability and safety of iron administration.
- Methods of Administration: It outlines various methods for administering these complexes, including oral and parenteral routes.
- Therapeutic Uses: The claims include the treatment of iron-related conditions, such as iron deficiency anemia, and potentially other disorders where iron supplementation is beneficial[5].
Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
The independent claims are the broadest and most significant claims in the patent. For US Patent 11,364,260, these would typically include claims that define the novel compositions and methods of administration. For example:
- Claim 1 might describe the iron carbohydrate complex composition.
- Claim 2 might detail the method of preparing this complex.
- Claim 3 could outline the method of administering the complex for therapeutic purposes.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims and provide additional specificity. These might include claims that describe specific types of carbohydrates used, the ratio of iron to carbohydrate, or specific patient populations for which the treatment is intended.
Patent Landscape
Industry Context
The patent landscape for iron therapy is dynamic, with numerous patents covering various aspects of iron administration. Companies and research institutions are continually developing new formulations and delivery methods to improve efficacy and reduce side effects.
Related Patents
Other patents in this field might cover different types of iron complexes, alternative delivery methods (e.g., intravenous vs. oral), or specific applications (e.g., treating anemia in chronic kidney disease patients). For instance, patents related to injectable iron products like INJECTAFER highlight the diversity in iron therapy approaches[2].
Technological Trends
The trend in pharmaceutical patents, including those related to iron therapy, is towards more targeted and efficient delivery systems. This includes the use of nanoparticles, liposomes, and other advanced formulations to enhance bioavailability and reduce toxicity[1].
Economic and R&D Context
R&D Expenditure
The development of such patents often involves significant research and development (R&D) expenditures. Industries like pharmaceuticals and biotechnology invest heavily in R&D to develop innovative treatments. For example, the computer and electronics manufacturing industry, while not directly related to pharmaceuticals, demonstrates high R&D spending and patent activity, indicating the broader trend of innovation-driven industries[1].
Patenting by Industries
The pharmaceutical industry, like other high R&D industries, has a high rate of patenting. This is evident from the data showing that firms in high R&D industries, such as scientific R&D services, although not always the highest in patent numbers, contribute significantly to the patent landscape through their innovative work[1].
Global Patent Trends
International Comparisons
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) classification system helps in comparing patent trends globally. Patents in the pharmaceutical sector, including those related to iron therapy, are classified under specific technical fields. This allows for a comprehensive analysis of global trends in patenting within this sector[1].
Access to Global Patent Databases
Tools like the Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and databases from international intellectual property offices (e.g., EPO, JPO, WIPO) provide access to global patent data. These resources are crucial for understanding the broader patent landscape and identifying potential competitors or collaborators[4].
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Composition: US Patent 11,364,260 introduces novel iron carbohydrate complexes for treating iron-related conditions.
- Comprehensive Claims: The patent includes claims for compositions, methods of preparation, and therapeutic uses.
- Dynamic Patent Landscape: The pharmaceutical industry, particularly in iron therapy, is highly innovative with ongoing developments in formulations and delivery methods.
- Global Trends: The use of international patent classification systems and global databases helps in understanding and navigating the global patent landscape.
FAQs
What is the main focus of US Patent 11,364,260?
The main focus is on methods and compositions for the administration of iron, specifically iron carbohydrate complexes, to treat iron-related conditions.
Who is the inventor of this patent?
The inventor is Mary Jane Helenek.
What are the key claims of this patent?
The key claims include the composition of iron carbohydrate complexes, methods of preparing these complexes, and methods of administering them for therapeutic purposes.
How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape?
It is part of a dynamic landscape in pharmaceuticals, particularly in iron therapy, with ongoing innovations in formulations and delivery methods.
What tools are available for searching and analyzing patents globally?
Tools include the Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and databases from international intellectual property offices like EPO, JPO, and WIPO.
What is the significance of R&D expenditure in the development of such patents?
Significant R&D expenditure is crucial for developing innovative treatments, as seen in high R&D industries which often have high patent activity.
Sources
- National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics, National Science Foundation. "Invention: U.S. and Comparative Global Trends." January 15, 2020.
- DrugPatentWatch. "Drugs Protected by US Patent 11364260."
- USPTO. "Patent Claims Research Dataset."
- USPTO. "Search for patents - USPTO."
- NCBI. "Methods and compositions for administration of iron - Patent US 11364260."
