United States Patent 3,939,178: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 3,939,178, titled "Certain pyrano[3,4-b]indoles and thiopyrano[3,4-b]indoles," is a significant patent that discloses novel indole derivatives. This patent, issued on February 17, 1976, is crucial for understanding the chemical and pharmaceutical innovations of its time.
Background of the Invention
The patent relates to the synthesis and properties of pyrano[3,4-b]indoles and thiopyrano[3,4-b]indoles, which are indole derivatives. These compounds have been of interest due to their potential biological activities and therapeutic applications[1].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent encompasses the preparation, structure, and properties of the specified indole derivatives. Here are the key aspects:
Chemical Structure
The patent describes the chemical structures of 1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indoles and 1,3,4,9-tetrahydrothiopyrano[3,4-b]indoles. These compounds are characterized by their fused ring systems, which include a pyrano or thiopyrano moiety attached to an indole nucleus[1].
Synthesis
The patent details various methods for synthesizing these compounds, including reactions involving acetic acid and other reagents. The synthesis processes are critical for understanding how these compounds can be produced on a laboratory or industrial scale[1].
Properties and Applications
The patent highlights the potential biological and therapeutic properties of these indole derivatives. While the patent does not specify exact applications, it implies that these compounds could be useful in pharmaceutical research due to their unique chemical structures.
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are essential for defining the scope of protection granted to the inventors. Here are some key claims:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1: This claim describes the general structure of 1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indoles and 1,3,4,9-tetrahydrothiopyrano[3,4-b]indoles, specifying the substituents and the fused ring system[1].
Dependent Claims
- Subsequent claims provide more detailed descriptions of specific compounds within the general structure, including variations in substituents and reaction conditions[1].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape surrounding US 3,939,178 involves examining related patents, prior art, and subsequent developments.
Prior Art
The patent cites earlier work related to indole derivatives, such as US Patent 3,843,681, which was issued on October 22, 1974. This prior art is crucial for understanding the evolutionary path of indole chemistry[1].
Related Patents
Other patents, such as European Patent EP0238226A1, also discuss similar indole derivatives, indicating a broader interest in these compounds across different jurisdictions[2].
Impact on Future Research
The issuance of US 3,939,178 influenced subsequent research in organic chemistry and pharmaceuticals. It contributed to the development of new synthetic methods and the exploration of biological activities of indole derivatives.
Legal Status
The patent has expired, as indicated by its legal status. This means that the protected inventions are now in the public domain, and anyone can use the disclosed information without infringing on the original patent rights[1].
Search and Analysis Tools
For professionals conducting patent searches related to this area, tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Common Citation Document (CCD) are invaluable. These resources help in identifying prior art, related patents, and the global patent family of a specific application[4].
Conclusion
United States Patent 3,939,178 is a significant contribution to the field of organic chemistry and pharmaceutical research. Its scope and claims provide a detailed framework for understanding and synthesizing novel indole derivatives. The patent landscape surrounding this invention highlights the ongoing interest in indole chemistry and its potential therapeutic applications.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical Structure: The patent describes 1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indoles and 1,3,4,9-tetrahydrothiopyrano[3,4-b]indoles.
- Synthesis Methods: Detailed methods for synthesizing these compounds are provided.
- Potential Applications: The compounds have potential biological and therapeutic properties.
- Claims: The patent includes independent and dependent claims defining the scope of protection.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of indole chemistry research.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired and is now in the public domain.
FAQs
What are the main compounds described in US 3,939,178?
The main compounds are 1,3,4,9-tetrahydropyrano[3,4-b]indoles and 1,3,4,9-tetrahydrothiopyrano[3,4-b]indoles.
How are these compounds synthesized?
The synthesis involves reactions with acetic acid and other reagents to form the fused ring systems.
What are the potential applications of these compounds?
They have potential biological and therapeutic properties, although specific applications are not detailed in the patent.
Is the patent still in force?
No, the patent has expired and is now in the public domain.
How can one conduct a patent search related to this area?
Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Common Citation Document (CCD) can be used to identify related patents and prior art.
Sources
- US3939178A - Certain pyrano [3,4-b]indoles and thiopyrano[3,4-b]indoles - Google Patents
- EP0238226A1 - Substituted 1,3,4,9 ... - Google Patents
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO - USPTO
