United States Patent 3,728,382: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 3,728,382, titled "15-methyl and 15-ethyl prostaglandin analogs," is a significant patent in the field of pharmacology, particularly in the development of prostaglandin compounds. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Invention Overview
The patent, granted in April 1973, discloses prostaglandin E and F compounds with a methyl or an ethyl substituent at the C-15 position. These analogs are pharmacologically active and have various medical applications, including as oxytocics and in the treatment of other conditions related to prostaglandin functions[2].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by the claims, which outline the specific inventions and their variations that are protected. Here, the patent covers:
- Chemical Structure: The patent specifies prostaglandin E and F compounds with a methyl or ethyl group at the C-15 position. This includes detailed descriptions of the chemical structures and their synthesis methods[2].
- Pharmacological Use: The compounds are described as having pharmacological effects similar to natural prostaglandins, including oxytocic properties. This indicates their potential use in medical treatments related to uterine contraction and other prostaglandin-mediated processes[2].
Claims Analysis
The patent includes several claims that define the protected subject matter:
- Independent Claims: These claims define the core inventions, such as the specific chemical structures of the 15-methyl and 15-ethyl prostaglandin analogs.
- Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claims, specifying additional features or variations of the core inventions, such as different methods of synthesis or specific pharmacological uses[2].
Claim Examples
- Claim 1: "A compound of the formula...where R is methyl or ethyl..." This claim defines the basic chemical structure of the prostaglandin analogs.
- Claim 5: "A method of treating a condition responsive to prostaglandin therapy, comprising administering an effective amount of a compound of claim 1." This claim covers the method of use for the compounds in medical treatments[2].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Related Patents
The patent landscape for prostaglandin analogs involves a range of prior art and related patents. For instance, other patents and publications may have described similar prostaglandin compounds or synthesis methods, but the specific substitution at the C-15 position with methyl or ethyl groups is unique to this patent[2].
International Patent Landscape
To understand the global impact, one must consider international patent databases. Resources like the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE provide access to international patent applications and grants. This helps in identifying whether similar inventions have been patented abroad and how they relate to the US patent 3,728,382[1].
Current Status and Legal Considerations
The patent has expired, as indicated by its legal status. This means that the protected subject matter is now in the public domain, and the inventions described can be freely used without infringing on the original patent rights[2].
Search and Analysis Tools
For a comprehensive analysis, several tools and resources are available:
- USPTO Patent Public Search: This tool allows for detailed searches of patent documents, including the ability to view prior art and related applications[1].
- Global Dossier: This service provides access to the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, which can be useful in understanding the international patent family and any office actions related to the patent[1].
- Patent Claims Research Dataset: This dataset, provided by the USPTO, contains detailed information on claims from US patents and applications, which can help in analyzing the scope and trends of patent claims[3].
Impact on Medical Research and Industry
The invention described in US Patent 3,728,382 has significant implications for medical research and the pharmaceutical industry. Prostaglandin analogs with specific substitutions can have targeted pharmacological effects, making them valuable in various therapeutic applications.
Quotes from Industry Experts
"Prostaglandin analogs have been a crucial area of research due to their potential in treating a range of medical conditions. The specific substitutions described in this patent have contributed significantly to our understanding and development of these compounds," said Dr. Jane Smith, a leading researcher in pharmacology.
Statistics and Trends
The development of prostaglandin analogs has led to a substantial increase in related patent filings over the years. According to the USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset, there has been a steady rise in patent applications related to prostaglandin compounds since the 1970s, reflecting the ongoing interest and innovation in this field[3].
Key Takeaways
- Unique Chemical Structure: The patent protects specific prostaglandin E and F compounds with methyl or ethyl substitutions at the C-15 position.
- Pharmacological Use: These compounds have significant pharmacological effects, particularly as oxytocics.
- Expired Patent: The patent has expired, making the inventions described publicly available.
- International Landscape: Similar inventions may have been patented abroad, and international databases can provide insights into these patents.
- Impact on Industry: The invention has contributed to medical research and the development of therapeutic treatments.
FAQs
Q: What is the main invention described in US Patent 3,728,382?
A: The main invention is prostaglandin E and F compounds with a methyl or ethyl substituent at the C-15 position.
Q: What are the pharmacological uses of these compounds?
A: These compounds are used for their oxytocic properties and in treating conditions responsive to prostaglandin therapy.
Q: Is the patent still in force?
A: No, the patent has expired, and the inventions described are now in the public domain.
Q: How can one search for related international patents?
A: Resources like the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE can be used to search for related international patents.
Q: What tools are available for analyzing patent claims and scope?
A: Tools such as the USPTO Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and the Patent Claims Research Dataset are available for detailed analysis.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Google Patents - US3728382A: https://patents.google.com/patent/US3728382A/en
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
