Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,413,141: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
United States Patent 4,413,141, granted in November 1983, is a significant patent that has contributed to various fields, particularly in the area of biochemistry and pharmacology. This article will delve into the details of the patent's scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding it.
Background of the Patent
The patent, titled "Method of Inhibiting Polyamine Biosynthesis," was granted to inventors Carson and others. It revolves around the use of a specific compound, difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), as an inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), an enzyme crucial in the biosynthesis of polyamines[2].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which outline the specific inventions and methods that are protected.
Claims Overview
The patent includes multiple claims that describe the method of inhibiting polyamine biosynthesis using DFMO. Here are some key aspects:
- Claim 1: This claim describes a method of inhibiting polyamine biosynthesis by administering DFMO, which acts as a powerful inhibitor of ODC. This inhibition results in a decrease in putrescine and other polyamines[2].
- Subsequent Claims: These claims specify various aspects of the method, including the use of DFMO in different contexts, such as in vitro and in vivo applications, and its effects on different organisms.
Detailed Analysis of Claims
Claim Structure
The claims are structured to cover both the method of inhibition and the specific compound used. Here’s a breakdown:
- Independent Claims: These claims stand alone and define the core invention. For example, Claim 1 is an independent claim that describes the method of inhibiting polyamine biosynthesis using DFMO.
- Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claims and provide additional details or limitations. For instance, a dependent claim might specify the dosage or the particular organism on which the method is applied[2].
Claim Scope and Breadth
The scope of the claims determines the extent of protection afforded by the patent. In this case, the claims are broad enough to cover various applications of DFMO as an ODC inhibitor but specific enough to avoid overly broad interpretations that might infringe on prior art.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Related Patents
To understand the patent landscape, it is essential to look at prior art and related patents. The USPTO's Patent Public Search tool and other international databases can be used to find relevant patents and applications[4].
- Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC): The CPC database can be searched to find patents classified under similar categories, helping to identify related inventions and potential competitors[1].
- Global Dossier: This service provides access to the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, which can help in understanding the global patent landscape for similar inventions[4].
International Patent Databases
The patent landscape extends beyond the United States. Databases like PATENTSCOPE from WIPO, esp@cenet from the European Patent Office, and others provide access to international patent applications and granted patents, allowing for a comprehensive global analysis[4].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, including those related to biochemistry and pharmacology. This dataset can be used to analyze trends and measurements of patent scope, offering insights into the economic and research implications of patents like 4,413,141[3].
Industry Impact
The invention described in the patent has significant implications for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. The use of DFMO as an ODC inhibitor has been explored in various therapeutic applications, including cancer treatment and other diseases related to polyamine biosynthesis.
Expert Insights and Statistics
Quotes from Industry Experts
Industry experts often highlight the importance of patents like 4,413,141 in driving innovation. For example, Dr. Alan C. Marco, in the USPTO Economic Working Paper 2016-04, discusses the role of patent claims in defining the scope of inventions and their impact on the economy[3].
Illustrative Statistics
Statistics from the USPTO and other sources can provide a quantitative perspective on the impact of this patent. For instance, data from the Patent Claims Research Dataset can show the number of citations and the scope of claims in related patents, indicating the patent's influence on subsequent research and development.
"Patent claims are a critical component of the patent system, as they define the scope of the invention and determine the boundaries of the patentee’s exclusive rights." - Marco, Alan C., Sarnoff, Joshua D., and deGrazia, Charles, Patent Claims and Patent Scope (October 2016)[3].
Practical Applications and Future Directions
Current Uses of DFMO
DFMO is currently used in various medical applications, including the treatment of certain types of cancer and other diseases. The patent's claims have facilitated the development of these treatments by protecting the method of using DFMO as an ODC inhibitor.
Future Research Directions
The patent landscape around 4,413,141 suggests several future research directions. For example, further research into the therapeutic applications of DFMO and the development of new inhibitors could lead to new patents and innovations.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope and Claims: The patent's claims are structured to cover the method of inhibiting polyamine biosynthesis using DFMO, with both independent and dependent claims defining the scope of protection.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape that includes prior art, related patents, and international patent databases.
- Economic and Research Implications: The patent has significant economic and research implications, particularly in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
- Practical Applications: DFMO is used in various medical applications, and future research directions include further therapeutic applications and the development of new inhibitors.
FAQs
What is the main invention described in United States Patent 4,413,141?
The main invention is a method of inhibiting polyamine biosynthesis using difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) as an inhibitor of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC).
How can I search for related patents?
You can use the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, the Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC) database, and international databases like PATENTSCOPE and esp@cenet to search for related patents.
What is the significance of the Patent Claims Research Dataset?
The dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, allowing for the analysis of trends and measurements of patent scope, which is crucial for understanding the economic and research implications of patents.
How is DFMO used in medical applications?
DFMO is used in the treatment of certain types of cancer and other diseases by inhibiting polyamine biosynthesis, which is crucial for cell growth and proliferation.
What are the future research directions related to this patent?
Future research directions include further therapeutic applications of DFMO and the development of new inhibitors of polyamine biosynthesis.
Sources
- Clemson University Libraries - Research and Course Guides: Patent Searching, Advanced: Overview
- Google Patents - United States Patent (19) - Carson et al.
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset
- USPTO - Search for patents
- Google Patents - WO2003015763A1 - Adjuvant chemotherapy for ... - Google Patents
