United States Patent 4,647,447: A Comprehensive Analysis
Introduction
United States Patent 4,647,447, titled "Diagnostic media," is a significant patent in the field of medical diagnostics, particularly involving the use of complex salts and chelating agents. This patent, granted in 1987, has had a lasting impact on the development of contrast agents used in medical imaging.
Background and Context
The patent focuses on the creation and use of diagnostic media, specifically complex salts that include anions of complexing acids and central ions. These compounds are crucial in medical imaging, especially in MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and other diagnostic procedures.
Scope and Objectives
Diagnostic Media
The patent aims to provide a diagnostic medium that is physiologically well-tolerated and effective in enhancing the contrast in medical imaging. The scope includes the preparation and application of complex salts, particularly those involving gadolinium and other lanthanide ions[1][4].
Claims and Description
Complex Salts and Chelating Agents
The patent claims involve the use of complex salts comprising an anion of a complexing acid and one or more central ions. Key components include:
- Gadolinium Complexes: The patent describes the formation of gadolinium complexes using DOTA (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid) and other macrocyclic chelates. These complexes are essential for MRI contrast agents[1][4].
- Central Ions: The patent mentions various central ions, including transition metals and lanthanoids, which are chelated by the complexing acids[1].
Preparation Method
The preparation method involves reacting the central ion (e.g., gadolinium oxide) with the complexing acid (e.g., DOTA) in a stoichiometric manner. This process ensures the formation of a stable complex that minimizes the release of free gadolinium, which can be toxic[4].
Patent Landscape Analysis
Definition and Objectives
A patent landscape analysis for this patent involves defining the scope of diagnostic media and contrast agents, identifying key patents, and assessing the competitive landscape.
Conducting a Patent Search
Using databases like Google Patents, USPTO, and EPO, relevant patents related to diagnostic media and contrast agents are identified. This includes prior art and subsequent patents that build upon or challenge the claims of US 4,647,447[3][5].
Analyzing Patent Data
The data is sorted and categorized based on criteria such as ownership, technology, and geographical location. This helps in understanding the distribution of patent activity in the field.
Visualizing the Patent Landscape
Tools like patent mapping, bubbles, or heat maps are used to create a visual representation of the patent data. This visualization aids in identifying clusters of innovation and key players[5].
Evaluating Patent Strength
The validity and enforceability of the patents are assessed by evaluating factors such as claims, prior art, and legal status. This step is crucial for understanding the competitive impact of the patent[3].
Key Players and Market Opportunities
Major Players
Companies like GE Healthcare, Bracco Imaging, and Bayer have significant patent portfolios in the field of contrast agents. Analyzing their patent activity helps in understanding their R&D strategies and market positions[3].
Market Trends and Opportunities
The patent landscape analysis reveals market trends and potential opportunities for new products or technologies. For instance, the development of safer and more effective contrast agents is a continuous area of innovation[5].
Challenges and Limitations
Toxicity Concerns
One of the significant challenges addressed by this patent is the toxicity associated with free gadolinium ions. The patent's method of forming a stable complex minimizes this risk but requires precise stoichiometric reactions[4].
Complexity in Preparation
The preparation process involves multiple steps, including the reaction of gadolinium oxide with DOTA and subsequent adjustments to ensure the correct pH and concentration. This complexity can lead to variations in product quality[4].
Impact and Legacy
Influence on Medical Imaging
The patent has significantly influenced the development of MRI contrast agents. Gadolinium-based agents, such as gadoterate meglumine, are widely used today due to their safety and efficacy, which were improved upon by the methods described in this patent[4].
Continued Innovation
The patent landscape analysis shows that innovation in this field is ongoing. New patents and improvements continue to be filed, addressing issues such as osmotic pressure, stability, and the reduction of toxicity[4].
Key Takeaways
- Diagnostic Media: The patent focuses on the creation of diagnostic media using complex salts and chelating agents.
- Gadolinium Complexes: The use of gadolinium complexes with DOTA is a key aspect of the patent.
- Preparation Method: The method involves stoichiometric reactions to minimize toxicity.
- Patent Landscape: The analysis reveals a competitive landscape with major players continuously innovating.
- Market Opportunities: There are ongoing opportunities for developing safer and more effective contrast agents.
FAQs
What is the main focus of United States Patent 4,647,447?
The main focus is on the creation and use of diagnostic media, particularly complex salts involving gadolinium and other lanthanide ions.
What is DOTA, and how is it used in the patent?
DOTA (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid) is a macrocyclic chelate used to form stable complexes with gadolinium ions, reducing the risk of toxicity.
Why is the stoichiometric reaction important in this patent?
The stoichiometric reaction ensures that the complex formed is stable and minimizes the release of free gadolinium ions, which can be toxic.
Who are the major players in the field of contrast agents?
Companies like GE Healthcare, Bracco Imaging, and Bayer have significant patent portfolios and are major players in the field.
What are some of the challenges in preparing the diagnostic media described in the patent?
Challenges include ensuring the correct stoichiometric reactions, maintaining the right pH, and avoiding the formation of free gadolinium ions.
Cited Sources
- US4647447A - Diagnostic media - Google Patents
- N,N′-bis(2-hydroxybenzyl)ethylenediamine-N,N′-diacetic Acid in Iron chelating therapy - Unified Patents
- Patent landscape: from definition to strategic application - KnowMade
- Preparation method of contrast medium composition comprising gadolinium - Google Patents
- Patent Landscape Analysis - KNOTTY IP
