United States Patent 4,264,611: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,264,611, titled "New Compounds Having Antihypertensive Effect," is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the area of cardiovascular treatments. This patent, issued to researchers involved in the development of new antihypertensive compounds, provides valuable insights into the chemical structures and therapeutic applications of these compounds.
Background and Context
The patent was granted on April 28, 1981, and it has since expired, as is typical for patents which have a limited lifespan, usually 20 years from the date of filing[2].
Scope of the Patent
Chemical Compounds
The patent describes new compounds of the dihydropyridine type, which are known for their antihypertensive effects. These compounds are characterized by specific chemical structures, including variations of the dihydropyridine ring system. The general formula for these compounds is provided, along with detailed descriptions of the substituents and their positions on the ring[2].
Therapeutic Applications
The primary therapeutic application of these compounds is in the treatment of hypertension. The patent outlines the antihypertensive effects of these dihydropyridine derivatives and suggests their potential use in managing cardiovascular disorders.
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims specify the chemical structures of the compounds, including the general formula and the specific substituents that are part of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe a compound of the formula I, where R1 is selected from a specific group of substituents[2].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further narrow down the scope by specifying particular embodiments of the compounds. These claims often describe specific substituents, their positions, and any additional functional groups that may be present.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent references several prior art patents that describe similar dihydropyridine compounds. For instance, U.S. patents 3,799,934 and 3,644,627 are mentioned as prior art, indicating that the field of dihydropyridine compounds was already active at the time of this patent's filing[5].
Related Patents
Other patents, such as U.S. Patent 5,399,578, which discloses Valsartan, and U.S. Patent 4,885,284, which discloses efonidipine, are part of the broader landscape of antihypertensive treatments. These patents highlight the ongoing research and development in the field of cardiovascular therapeutics[4].
International Context
The patent landscape extends beyond the United States. International patent databases, such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), contain similar patents and applications related to antihypertensive compounds. This global context is crucial for understanding the full scope of intellectual property in this area[1].
Search and Analysis Tools
USPTO Resources
To conduct a thorough analysis of this patent, one can use resources provided by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), such as the Patent Public Search tool, which offers enhanced access to prior art and related applications. The Global Dossier service is also useful for viewing the patent family and related applications from participating IP offices[1].
International Databases
Databases like esp@cenet from the EPO, PATENTSCOPE from WIPO, and others provide access to international patent collections, enabling a comprehensive search for similar patents and applications worldwide[1].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can be used to analyze the scope and claims of this patent in the context of broader trends in patenting. This dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents and applications, allowing researchers to understand the evolution of patent scope and claims in the pharmaceutical sector[3].
Industry Impact
The development and patenting of new antihypertensive compounds have significant economic and health implications. These compounds can lead to new treatments and therapies, impacting the pharmaceutical industry and public health. The patent landscape in this area reflects the ongoing innovation and competition among pharmaceutical companies.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical Structure: The patent describes dihydropyridine compounds with specific chemical structures and substituents.
- Therapeutic Use: The primary use is in treating hypertension and related cardiovascular disorders.
- Claims: The patent includes independent and dependent claims that define the scope of the invention.
- Prior Art: The patent references earlier patents in the field of dihydropyridine compounds.
- International Context: Similar patents and applications exist globally, accessible through various international patent databases.
- Economic Impact: The development of these compounds has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry and public health.
FAQs
Q: What is the main therapeutic application of the compounds described in U.S. Patent 4,264,611?
A: The main therapeutic application is in the treatment of hypertension and related cardiovascular disorders.
Q: How can one search for similar patents globally?
A: One can use international patent databases such as esp@cenet from the EPO, PATENTSCOPE from WIPO, and other national patent offices' databases.
Q: What tools can be used to analyze the scope and claims of this patent?
A: Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and the Patent Claims Research Dataset can be used for a thorough analysis.
Q: Why is it important to consider prior art when analyzing this patent?
A: Prior art helps in understanding the existing knowledge in the field and how the current patent contributes to or differs from previous inventions.
Q: What is the current status of U.S. Patent 4,264,611?
A: The patent has expired, as it was granted in 1981 and patents typically have a lifespan of 20 years from the date of filing.
Sources
- USPTO: "Search for patents - USPTO" - https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Google Patents: "US4264611A - Google Patents" - https://patents.google.com/patent/US4264611A/en
- USPTO: "Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO" - https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Canadian Patents Database: "Patent 2846387 Summary - Canadian Patents Database" - https://www.ic.gc.ca/opic-cipo/cpd/eng/patent/2846387/summary.html?query=null&start=null&num=null&type=number_search&wbdisable=true
- Googleapis: "Untitled - Googleapis.com" - https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/1a/27/71/eff09ce206a8d4/WO2001007017A1.pdf
