United States Patent 4,507,305: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,507,305, granted on March 19, 1985, is a significant patent in the field of biotechnology, particularly in the area of DNA synthesis. This patent, assigned to the pharmaceutical company Syntex (now part of Roche), has had a lasting impact on the development of biopharmaceuticals. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this innovation.
Background and Invention
The patent titled "Process for Preparing Oligonucleotides" describes a method for synthesizing oligonucleotides, which are short DNA or RNA molecules. This process was a breakthrough in the field of molecular biology, enabling the efficient and reliable production of these crucial biological molecules. The inventors, Michael H. Caruthers and his team, developed a phosphoramidite method that has become a cornerstone in DNA synthesis technology[2].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of US Patent 4,507,305 encompasses a specific method for preparing oligonucleotides using phosphoramidite chemistry. This method involves the stepwise addition of nucleotides to a growing chain, allowing for the precise synthesis of DNA sequences. The patent covers the reagents, the reaction conditions, and the overall process for achieving high-yield and high-purity oligonucleotides.
Key Components
- Phosphoramidite Chemistry: The patent details the use of phosphoramidite reagents, which are crucial for forming the phosphodiester bonds between nucleotides.
- Stepwise Synthesis: The method involves adding nucleotides one at a time, allowing for the synthesis of specific DNA sequences.
- Reaction Conditions: The patent specifies the conditions under which the reactions should be carried out to ensure optimal results.
Claims of the Patent
The claims of US Patent 4,507,305 are detailed and specific, outlining the various aspects of the invention. Here are some key claims:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the general process for preparing oligonucleotides using phosphoramidite chemistry.
- Claim 2 specifies the reagents and conditions used in the process.
- Claim 3 details the stepwise addition of nucleotides to the growing chain.
Dependent Claims
- These claims further elaborate on the specifics of the reagents, reaction conditions, and the apparatus used in the synthesis process.
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US Patent 4,507,305 is complex and has evolved significantly since its issuance.
Prior Art and Related Patents
- The patent builds upon earlier work in nucleotide synthesis but introduces a novel method using phosphoramidite chemistry.
- Other patents in the field, such as those related to solid-phase synthesis, complement and sometimes overlap with the claims of this patent[1].
International Patent Family
- The invention has been protected in various countries through a family of patents, ensuring global coverage for the method.
- Databases like the Global Dossier and the Common Citation Document (CCD) provide insights into the international patent family and citations related to this invention[1].
Impact on Biotechnology
- The method described in US Patent 4,507,305 has been pivotal in the development of biopharmaceuticals, enabling the synthesis of specific DNA sequences crucial for genetic engineering and gene therapy.
- Quote from Industry Expert: "The phosphoramidite method has revolutionized DNA synthesis, making it possible to produce high-quality oligonucleotides efficiently. This has been a game-changer in biotechnology," said Dr. Michael H. Caruthers, one of the inventors[2].
Patent Classification
The patent is classified under various categories in the patent classification system, which helps in organizing and searching for related patents.
- US Classification: The patent falls under the US classification system, specifically under classes related to organic compounds and biochemical processes.
- International Classification: It is also classified under the International Patent Classification (IPC) system, which facilitates global searches and comparisons[4].
Search and Analysis Tools
Several tools and databases are available for searching and analyzing patents related to US Patent 4,507,305.
- Patent Public Search: The USPTO's Patent Public Search tool provides enhanced access to prior art and related patents.
- Global Dossier: This service allows users to view the patent family and related applications from participating IP offices.
- PatentsView: This platform offers visualization and analysis tools for intellectual property data, including patent landscape reports[1][4].
Economic and Research Implications
The Patent Claims Research Dataset by the USPTO provides insights into the economic and research implications of patents like US 4,507,305.
- Patent Scope Measurements: The dataset includes measures of patent scope, which can help in understanding the breadth and impact of the patent claims.
- Research Trends: Analyzing the dataset can reveal trends in patenting activity and the evolution of technologies in the biotechnology sector[3].
Conclusion
US Patent 4,507,305 is a landmark patent in the field of DNA synthesis, with its phosphoramidite method remaining a cornerstone in biotechnology. Understanding the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is crucial for researchers, inventors, and businesses operating in this field.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Method: The patent describes a novel method for DNA synthesis using phosphoramidite chemistry.
- Global Impact: The invention has had a significant global impact on biotechnology and biopharmaceutical development.
- Patent Classification: The patent is classified under specific categories, facilitating searches and comparisons.
- Economic Implications: The patent has contributed to the advancement of biotechnology, with measurable economic and research implications.
FAQs
Q: What is the main innovation described in US Patent 4,507,305?
A: The main innovation is a method for synthesizing oligonucleotides using phosphoramidite chemistry.
Q: How has this patent impacted the field of biotechnology?
A: It has enabled the efficient and reliable production of specific DNA sequences, which is crucial for genetic engineering and gene therapy.
Q: What tools can be used to search and analyze patents related to US Patent 4,507,305?
A: Tools such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and PatentsView can be used.
Q: What is the significance of the Global Dossier in relation to this patent?
A: The Global Dossier provides access to the patent family and related applications from participating IP offices, facilitating a comprehensive view of the patent's global coverage.
Q: How can the Patent Claims Research Dataset help in understanding the impact of this patent?
A: The dataset provides detailed information on claims and patent scope measurements, helping to analyze the breadth and impact of the patent claims.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- DrugPatentWatch - Patent 4,507,305. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/patent/4507305
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Brown University Library Guides - Patents. Retrieved from https://libguides.brown.edu/patent
