United States Patent 4,508,729: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,508,729, titled "Substituted iminodiacids, their preparation and pharmaceutical compositions containing them," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceutical chemistry. This patent, issued on April 2, 1985, covers a range of compounds, their preparation methods, and their use in pharmaceutical compositions. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was granted to inventors who developed novel substituted iminodiacids, which are compounds with potential therapeutic applications. The assignee of the patent is not specified in the provided sources, but typically, such patents are assigned to pharmaceutical companies or research institutions[4].
Publication and Priority Dates
The patent was published on April 2, 1985, with a priority date that would have been at least one year prior to the filing date, given the typical patent application process[4].
Scope of the Patent
Chemical Compounds
The patent focuses on substituted iminodiacids, which are organic compounds with specific chemical structures. These compounds are described in detail, including their general formula, synthesis methods, and properties. The scope includes various derivatives and salts of these compounds, which are crucial for their pharmaceutical applications[4].
Preparation Methods
The patent outlines several methods for preparing these substituted iminodiacids. These methods involve various chemical reactions and processes that result in the desired compounds. The detailed description of these methods is essential for reproducing the invention[4].
Pharmaceutical Compositions
A significant part of the patent deals with pharmaceutical compositions that contain these substituted iminodiacids as active ingredients. These compositions can be used to treat various medical conditions, such as hypertension, and are formulated to ensure the compounds are delivered effectively and safely to the patient[4].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims typically cover the novel compounds, their preparation methods, and the pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds. For example, claims might include:
- The chemical structure of the substituted iminodiacids.
- Specific methods for synthesizing these compounds.
- Pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds as active ingredients[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the invention by detailing particular aspects of the independent claims. These could include specific derivatives of the compounds, variations in the synthesis methods, or different formulations of the pharmaceutical compositions[4].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent landscape for this invention involves prior art that relates to similar chemical compounds and their uses. The patent cites earlier work in the field, such as other patents and scientific literature, to establish the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention. For instance, the patent might reference earlier patents on related compounds or synthesis methods to differentiate its contributions[4].
International Patent Family
To understand the global reach of this patent, it is essential to look at the international patent family. This involves searching databases like the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) PATENTSCOPE or the European Patent Office (EPO) esp@cenet to see if similar patents were filed in other jurisdictions. This helps in understanding the global protection and potential variations of the patent[1].
Competing Patents
Analyzing competing patents in the same field can provide insights into the competitive landscape. This involves searching for patents from other companies or inventors that cover similar compounds or methods. Tools like the USPTO Patent Public Search or the Global Dossier can be used to identify these competing patents and assess their claims and scope[1].
Legal Status
Expiration and Maintenance
The patent has expired, as indicated by the legal status. Patents typically have a lifetime of 20 years from the filing date, after which they enter the public domain. Maintenance fees are required to keep the patent in force during its lifetime, but once these fees are not paid, the patent expires[4].
Impact and Applications
Therapeutic Uses
The substituted iminodiacids covered by this patent have potential therapeutic uses, particularly in treating cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension. The pharmaceutical compositions described are designed to deliver these compounds effectively, making them valuable in clinical settings[4].
Research and Development
This patent contributes to the broader field of pharmaceutical research and development. The novel compounds and synthesis methods described can serve as a foundation for further research, leading to new treatments and therapies.
Conclusion
United States Patent 4,508,729 is a significant contribution to the field of pharmaceutical chemistry, covering novel substituted iminodiacids, their preparation methods, and pharmaceutical compositions. Understanding the scope, claims, and patent landscape of this invention provides valuable insights into its impact and applications.
Key Takeaways
- Novel Compounds: The patent covers novel substituted iminodiacids with specific chemical structures.
- Preparation Methods: Detailed methods for synthesizing these compounds are provided.
- Pharmaceutical Compositions: The patent includes formulations of these compounds for therapeutic use.
- Patent Landscape: The invention is part of a broader patent landscape involving prior art and competing patents.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, entering the public domain.
- Impact: The patent contributes to the development of new treatments for cardiovascular disorders.
FAQs
Q: What are the main claims of United States Patent 4,508,729?
A: The main claims include the novel substituted iminodiacids, their preparation methods, and pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds.
Q: What is the therapeutic application of the compounds described in the patent?
A: The compounds are primarily used in treating cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension.
Q: How can one search for similar patents internationally?
A: One can use databases like WIPO PATENTSCOPE or EPO esp@cenet to search for similar patents filed in other jurisdictions.
Q: What is the current legal status of the patent?
A: The patent has expired and is no longer in force.
Q: What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape for this invention?
A: Tools like the USPTO Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and databases from other international intellectual property offices can be used to analyze the patent landscape.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Canadian Patents Database - Patent 2846387 Summary. Retrieved from https://www.ic.gc.ca/opic-cipo/cpd/eng/patent/2846387/summary.html?query=null&start=null&num=null&type=number_search&wbdisable=true
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - US4508729A. Retrieved from https://patents.google.com/patent/US4508729A/en