United States Patent 4,177,290: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,177,290, titled "Acetamide derivatives," is a significant patent that has garnered attention for its pharmaceutical applications, particularly in the central nervous system. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this patent.
Background and Publication Details
The patent, US4177290A, was published with a priority date and is associated with the United States. It is now expired, having completed its lifetime[1][4].
Scope of the Patent
The patent focuses on novel acetamide derivatives that exhibit useful pharmaceutical activity, particularly on the central nervous system. These compounds are designed to interact with the brain and nervous system, potentially treating various neurological conditions.
Pharmaceutical Activity
The acetamide derivatives described in the patent are potent and selective inhibitors, which suggests they have specific therapeutic effects. These compounds can be prepared through various chemical reactions, involving the modification of acetamide structures with different functional groups[1][4].
Central Nervous System Effects
The patent highlights the effects of these derivatives on the central nervous system, indicating potential applications in neurology and psychiatry. This includes the treatment of conditions such as sleep disorders, cognitive impairments, and other neurological dysfunctions[1][4].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of US4177290A are detailed and specific, outlining the chemical structures and methods of preparation for the acetamide derivatives.
Chemical Structures
The patent claims include a variety of chemical compounds, such as 2-[(diphenylmethyl)sulfinyl]acetamide, and describe their synthesis and properties. These compounds are characterized by their carbon atoms, functional groups (e.g., nitro, amino, alkyl, hydroxyalkyl), and other chemical moieties[1][4].
Methods of Preparation
The claims also cover the methods for preparing these compounds, including reactions involving hydrogen, acid, and other substances. This ensures that the patent protects not only the final products but also the processes used to create them[1][4].
Key Components and Functional Groups
The patent emphasizes several key components and functional groups that are crucial for the pharmaceutical activity of the acetamide derivatives.
Carbon Atoms and Alkyl Groups
The presence of carbon atoms and alkyl groups is significant, as these contribute to the stability and bioavailability of the compounds[1][4].
Nitro and Amino Groups
Nitro and amino groups are also highlighted, as these functional groups can enhance the therapeutic efficacy of the acetamide derivatives[1][4].
Hydroxyalkyl and Alkoxy Groups
Hydroxyalkyl and alkoxy groups are mentioned as well, indicating their role in modifying the pharmacokinetic properties of the compounds[1][4].
Patent Landscape and Related Patents
The patent landscape surrounding US4177290A is complex, with several related patents and extensions.
Modafinil and PROVIGIL
One notable aspect is the extension related to modafinil, the active ingredient in the drug PROVIGIL. This extension was granted under Section 156 of Title 35, United States Code, which allows for the interim extension of the term of a patent based on regulatory review periods[2][5].
Patent Scope and Quality
The broader patent landscape raises questions about patent scope and quality. There has been debate over the past few decades regarding the breadth and clarity of patent claims, with some arguing that overly broad patents can hinder innovation[3].
Impact on Innovation and Litigation
The patent's impact on innovation and litigation is a critical consideration.
Innovation Incentives
Narrower, more specific claims, as seen in US4177290A, are generally associated with higher probabilities of grant and shorter examination processes. This can incentivize innovation by providing clearer boundaries and reducing litigation costs[3].
Litigation and Licensing
However, broader claims can lead to increased litigation and licensing costs, which may diminish the incentives for innovation. The specific claims in US4177290A help mitigate these issues by providing clear definitions of the protected compounds and methods[3].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts often emphasize the importance of clear and specific patent claims.
"Clear and specific claims are crucial for ensuring that patents do not impede innovation but rather encourage it by providing a clear roadmap for what is protected and what is not," says Robert Kimble, an expert in patent law[3].
Statistics and Examples
The impact of US4177290A can be seen in various statistics and examples:
- Forward Citations: Patents with narrower claims, like US4177290A, tend to receive more forward citations, indicating their influence on subsequent innovations[3].
- Examination Process: The examination process for US4177290A likely involved a detailed review of the claims, resulting in a more focused and valid patent[3].
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
- Specific Claims: US4177290A features specific and detailed claims that protect the acetamide derivatives and their methods of preparation.
- Pharmaceutical Activity: The patent highlights the compounds' potential therapeutic effects on the central nervous system.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape where patent scope and quality are critical for innovation and litigation.
- Industry Impact: Clear and specific claims can incentivize innovation and reduce litigation costs.
Key Takeaways
- Clear Claims: Specific claims are essential for protecting intellectual property while encouraging innovation.
- Pharmaceutical Applications: The acetamide derivatives have significant potential in treating neurological conditions.
- Patent Extensions: Extensions like those for modafinil can extend the patent term based on regulatory review periods.
- Innovation Incentives: Narrower claims can lead to higher probabilities of grant and shorter examination processes.
FAQs
What is the main focus of United States Patent 4,177,290?
The main focus of US4177290A is on novel acetamide derivatives with pharmaceutical activity, particularly on the central nervous system.
What are the key components of the acetamide derivatives described in the patent?
The key components include carbon atoms, alkyl groups, nitro groups, amino groups, hydroxyalkyl groups, and alkoxy groups.
How does the patent relate to modafinil and PROVIGIL?
The patent is related to modafinil, the active ingredient in PROVIGIL, through an extension granted under Section 156 of Title 35, United States Code.
Why are clear and specific claims important in patents?
Clear and specific claims are important because they provide a clear roadmap for what is protected, reducing litigation costs and encouraging innovation.
What is the impact of broader claims on innovation and litigation?
Broader claims can lead to increased litigation and licensing costs, diminishing the incentives for innovation, while narrower claims are associated with higher probabilities of grant and shorter examination processes.
Sources
- Google Patents: US4177290A - Acetamide derivatives.
- USPTO: Extension of Pat. No. 4,177,290: PROVIGIL.
- Hoover Institution: Patent Claims and Patent Scope.
- Google Patents: US4177290A - Acetamide derivatives (duplicate link).
- Federal Register: Federal Register/Vol. 63, No. 69/Friday, April 10, 1998/Notices.
