United States Patent 11,643,397: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 11,643,397, titled "Prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors," is a significant patent in the field of medical science, particularly in the area of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors. This article will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Context
Prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors are crucial in the treatment of various diseases, including anemia, ischemic diseases, and other conditions related to hypoxia. These inhibitors work by stabilizing HIF, a transcription factor that plays a key role in the body's response to low oxygen levels[1].
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers specific heteroaromatic N-substituted glycine derivatives that act as inhibitors of HIF prolyl hydroxylases. These compounds are designed to treat conditions where the stabilization of HIF is beneficial. The scope is narrowly defined to include only those compounds that fit within the specified chemical structures and their use in therapeutic applications.
Chemical Structure
The patent describes the chemical structure of the inhibitors in detail, including the heteroaromatic rings and the N-substituted glycine derivatives. This specificity is crucial in distinguishing the patented compounds from other similar molecules[1].
Therapeutic Applications
The scope extends to the therapeutic use of these inhibitors, including the treatment of anemia, ischemic diseases, and other hypoxia-related conditions. This indicates that the patent not only covers the chemical compounds but also their medical applications.
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are the legal boundaries that define what is protected under the patent. Here are some key aspects:
Independent Claims
The independent claims outline the broadest scope of protection, typically including the general structure of the compounds and their therapeutic use. These claims are critical as they define the core invention and distinguish it from prior art[1].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further narrow down the scope by specifying additional features or limitations of the compounds. These claims often provide more detailed descriptions of the chemical structures, synthesis methods, or specific therapeutic applications.
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape is essential for assessing the novelty, non-obviousness, and potential impact of the patent.
Prior Art
The patent landscape includes an analysis of prior art, which involves examining existing patents and publications related to HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors. This helps in determining the novelty and non-obviousness of the claimed invention[4].
Related Patents
Other patents related to prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors, such as those described in EP-2037922-A4, provide context on the broader field. These patents may cover different chemical structures or therapeutic applications, but they contribute to the overall understanding of the technology[5].
Global Patent System
The global patent system, including databases from the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), offers a comprehensive view of similar patents filed in other jurisdictions. This is crucial for understanding the international scope and potential for global protection[4].
Metrics for Measuring Patent Scope
To evaluate the quality and breadth of the patent, metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be used. These metrics have been shown to have explanatory power for several correlates of patent scope, including patent maintenance payments, forward citations, and the breadth of patent classes[3].
Impact on Innovation
The patent's impact on innovation is a critical consideration. Narrower claims, as seen in this patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. This can facilitate innovation by providing clearer boundaries and reducing licensing and litigation costs[3].
Legal Status and Expiry
The legal status of the patent is active, indicating that it is currently in force. The expiry date, which can be found in the FDA Orange Book or through patent databases, is important for understanding the duration of protection and potential future developments in the field[2].
Conclusion
United States Patent 11,643,397 is a significant contribution to the field of HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors. The patent's scope is well-defined, covering specific chemical structures and their therapeutic applications. Understanding the claims, prior art, and broader patent landscape is essential for navigating the complex world of intellectual property in this field.
Key Takeaways
- Specific Chemical Structures: The patent covers heteroaromatic N-substituted glycine derivatives.
- Therapeutic Applications: The compounds are used in treating anemia, ischemic diseases, and other hypoxia-related conditions.
- Claims: Independent and dependent claims define the scope of protection.
- Patent Landscape: Includes analysis of prior art and related patents globally.
- Metrics for Scope: Independent claim length and count are useful metrics.
- Impact on Innovation: Narrower claims can facilitate innovation by reducing costs and uncertainties.
FAQs
What are HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors?
HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors are compounds that stabilize the hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) by inhibiting the enzymes that degrade it, thereby mimicking the body's response to low oxygen levels.
What is the significance of the chemical structure in the patent?
The chemical structure specified in the patent is crucial for defining the unique compounds that are protected under the patent. This specificity helps in distinguishing the patented compounds from other similar molecules.
How does the patent impact innovation in the field?
The patent, with its narrower claims, can facilitate innovation by providing clear boundaries and reducing licensing and litigation costs. This clarity can encourage further research and development in the field.
What databases can be used to search for related patents globally?
Databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) can be used to search for related patents globally.
What metrics can be used to evaluate the scope of a patent?
Metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be used to evaluate the scope of a patent. These metrics have explanatory power for several correlates of patent scope.
Sources
- US11643397B2 - Prolyl hydroxylase inhibitors - Google Patents
- US Patent 11643397 | US Patents | Expiry | Expiration | Dates - PharmaCompass
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Search for patents - USPTO - USPTO
- EP-2037922-A4 - Prolyl Hydroxylase Inhibitors - Unified Patents
