Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,303,651
Introduction
United States Patent 4,303,651, titled "Heparin Fragments Having Selective Anticoagulation Activity," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the area of anticoagulant substances. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
The patent, assigned to Pfizer Health AB, was filed on January 8, 1979, and granted on December 1, 1981. It pertains to heparin fragments that exhibit selective anticoagulation activity, which is crucial for medical applications where blood clotting needs to be controlled without causing undue bleeding risks[5].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which outline the specific aspects of the invention that are protected.
Claims Overview
The patent claims an oligosaccharidic fraction derived from heparin, characterized by having 14-18 sugar units and a molecular weight of about 3600-4800 Daltons. These fragments are designed to have selective anticoagulation activity, making them useful in various medical treatments where anticoagulation is required without the full range of heparin's effects[2].
Key Claim Elements
- Composition: The patent specifies the composition of the heparin fragments, including the number of sugar units and the molecular weight range.
- Method of Preparation: The claims may also include methods for preparing these fragments, which involve deaminative cleavage of heparin.
- Use: The patent covers the use of these fragments in medical treatments, highlighting their selective anticoagulation properties.
Claim Analysis
To understand the patent's scope, it is essential to analyze each claim in detail.
Independent Claims
Independent claims are those that stand alone and do not depend on other claims. For U.S. Patent 4,303,651, the independent claims typically define the core invention, such as the specific oligosaccharidic fractions and their properties.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims and provide additional details or limitations. These might include specific methods of preparation, additional properties of the fragments, or particular uses in medical treatments.
Patent Landscape
Understanding the broader patent landscape is crucial for assessing the significance and potential impact of U.S. Patent 4,303,651.
Related Patents
Other patents related to heparin fragments and anticoagulant substances can provide context. For instance, patents from other companies or researchers working on similar technologies can indicate the competitive environment and potential areas of innovation.
International Patent Filings
The global patent landscape is also relevant. Using resources like the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO, one can identify related patent applications filed in other countries, which helps in understanding the international protection and potential market impact of the invention[1].
Search Tools and Resources
Several tools and resources are available for conducting a thorough analysis of the patent landscape.
USPTO Resources
- Patent Public Search: This tool provides enhanced access to prior art and can be used to search for similar patents and published patent applications.
- Global Dossier: This service allows users to view the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, which is useful for identifying global patent families and related applications.
- Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs): These centers offer local search resources and training in patent search techniques, which can be invaluable for a detailed analysis[1].
International Databases
Databases from other international intellectual property offices, such as the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), provide access to global patent collections. These resources help in identifying similar inventions and assessing the global patent landscape[1].
Economic and Market Impact
The economic and market impact of U.S. Patent 4,303,651 can be significant, given its application in the pharmaceutical industry.
Market Demand
The demand for anticoagulant substances is high, particularly in treatments for cardiovascular diseases and surgeries. The selective anticoagulation activity of the heparin fragments patented here can fill a specific need in the market.
Competitive Advantage
The patent provides Pfizer Health AB with a competitive advantage in the market for anticoagulant substances. This can lead to increased market share and revenue, as well as the potential for licensing agreements with other companies.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Understanding the legal and regulatory environment is crucial for the enforcement and maintenance of the patent.
Patent Enforcement
The patent holder must ensure that the patent is enforced against any infringers. This involves monitoring for unauthorized use and taking legal action when necessary.
Regulatory Approvals
For pharmaceutical products, regulatory approvals are essential. The patent holder must comply with FDA regulations and other international health authorities to bring the product to market.
Conclusion
United States Patent 4,303,651 is a significant invention in the field of anticoagulant substances, offering selective anticoagulation activity through heparin fragments. The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which specify the composition, method of preparation, and use of these fragments. Understanding the broader patent landscape, using various search tools and resources, and considering the economic and market impact are all essential for maximizing the value of this patent.
Key Takeaways
- Specific Claims: The patent claims specific oligosaccharidic fractions derived from heparin with selective anticoagulation activity.
- Broader Landscape: The global patent landscape includes related patents and applications from other countries.
- Market Impact: The patent has significant economic and market implications in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Legal Considerations: Enforcement and regulatory compliance are crucial for maintaining the patent's value.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of U.S. Patent 4,303,651?
A: The main subject is heparin fragments with selective anticoagulation activity.
Q: Who is the assignee of U.S. Patent 4,303,651?
A: The assignee is Pfizer Health AB.
Q: What is the significance of the molecular weight range specified in the patent?
A: The molecular weight range (about 3600-4800 Daltons) defines the specific oligosaccharidic fractions that exhibit selective anticoagulation activity.
Q: How can one search for related patents globally?
A: Using resources like the Global Dossier and international patent databases such as those from the EPO, JPO, and WIPO.
Q: What are the potential market applications of the invention?
A: The invention has potential applications in medical treatments requiring anticoagulation, such as cardiovascular diseases and surgeries.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- United States Patent (19) - googleapis.com: https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/20/07/21/44437ad8147dc2/US4933326.pdf
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office | U.S. Department of Commerce: https://www.commerce.gov/bureaus-and-offices/uspto
- US-4438261-A - Anticoagulant Substance | Unified Patents: https://portal.unifiedpatents.com/patents/patent/US-4438261-A
