Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,657,900
Introduction
Understanding the scope and claims of a patent is crucial for inventors, researchers, and businesses to navigate the intellectual property landscape. This article will delve into the details of United States Patent 4,657,900, focusing on its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Overview of the Patent
United States Patent 4,657,900, titled "Stable Liquid Form of 5-Aminosalicylic Acid," was granted for a formulation of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA), a compound used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of a patent defines the boundaries of what is protected by the patent. For Patent 4,657,900, the scope includes:
Invention Description
The patent describes a stable liquid formulation of 5-aminosalicylic acid, which is achieved through the use of specific buffers and pH adjustments. This formulation is designed to improve the stability and efficacy of 5-ASA in therapeutic applications[5].
Claims
The claims section of a patent outlines the specific aspects of the invention that are protected. For Patent 4,657,900, the claims would typically include:
- Composition Claims: These would detail the specific formulation of 5-ASA, including the types and amounts of buffers and other components.
- Method Claims: These might cover the methods of preparing the stable liquid formulation.
- Use Claims: These could specify the therapeutic uses of the formulation, such as the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases.
Detailed Analysis of Claims
To understand the patent's claims, one must carefully review the claim language and any dependent claims that build upon the independent claims.
Independent Claims
Independent claims stand alone and define the broadest scope of the invention. For example, an independent claim might read:
"A stable liquid formulation of 5-aminosalicylic acid, comprising 5-aminosalicylic acid, a buffer selected from the group consisting of potassium acetate and sodium acetate, and a pH adjuster to maintain a pH between 6.0 and 7.5."
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow the scope of the independent claims by adding additional limitations. For instance:
"The formulation of claim 1, wherein the buffer is potassium acetate and the pH adjuster is hydrochloric acid."
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape involves looking at related patents, both prior art and subsequent filings, to gauge the competitive and technological environment.
Prior Art
Prior art refers to existing knowledge and patents that predate the filing of the patent in question. For Patent 4,657,900, prior art would include other formulations of 5-ASA and related therapeutic compounds. Researchers can use tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search or international databases such as the European Patent Office's esp@cenet to identify relevant prior art[1].
Subsequent Filings
Subsequent filings can indicate how the technology has evolved or how competitors have responded to the patented invention. Using databases like PATENTSCOPE from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) or the USPTO's Patents Dashboard, one can track subsequent patents related to 5-ASA formulations and treatments[1][4].
International Patent Considerations
Patent protection is not limited to the United States; it is essential to consider international filings and protections.
Global Dossier
The Global Dossier service allows users to view the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, including the IP5 Offices (USPTO, EPO, JPO, KIPO, and CNIPA). This can help in understanding the global patent family and any office actions related to the patent[1].
International Search Databases
Databases such as esp@cenet, PATENTSCOPE, and the Japan Patent Office's database provide access to international patent collections. These resources can help identify if similar inventions have been patented abroad and understand the global competitive landscape[1].
Economic and Technological Impact
The economic and technological impact of a patent can be significant, influencing both the market and future research.
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, including those related to pharmaceutical formulations. This dataset can help analyze trends in patent scope and claims over time, offering insights into the technological and economic impact of patents like 4,657,900[3].
Industry Trends
Industry trends and market analysis can reveal how patents like 4,657,900 have influenced the development of treatments for inflammatory bowel diseases. This includes looking at market share, research investments, and clinical trials related to 5-ASA formulations.
Practical Applications and Future Directions
Understanding the practical applications and future directions of a patent is crucial for stakeholders.
Clinical Use
The stable liquid formulation of 5-ASA patented in 4,657,900 has been used in clinical settings to treat patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. The stability and efficacy of this formulation have likely improved patient outcomes.
Research and Development
Future research may build upon this patent by exploring new formulations, delivery methods, or combinations with other therapeutic agents. The patent landscape analysis can guide researchers in identifying areas of innovation that are not yet protected by existing patents.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The scope of Patent 4,657,900 includes a stable liquid formulation of 5-aminosalicylic acid with specific buffers and pH adjustments.
- Claims Analysis: Careful review of independent and dependent claims is necessary to understand the protected aspects of the invention.
- Patent Landscape: Analyzing prior art and subsequent filings provides context on the competitive and technological environment.
- International Considerations: Global Dossier and international search databases are essential for understanding global patent protections.
- Economic and Technological Impact: The patent has significant economic and technological implications, influencing market trends and future research.
FAQs
Q: What is the main invention described in United States Patent 4,657,900?
A: The main invention is a stable liquid formulation of 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) for therapeutic use.
Q: How can one search for prior art related to this patent?
A: One can use tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search, esp@cenet from the European Patent Office, or PATENTSCOPE from WIPO to search for prior art.
Q: What is the significance of the Global Dossier service in patent searching?
A: The Global Dossier service allows users to view the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, providing a comprehensive view of the global patent family.
Q: How can the Patent Claims Research Dataset be useful in analyzing this patent?
A: The dataset provides detailed information on claims from U.S. patents, helping to analyze trends in patent scope and claims over time.
Q: What are some potential future directions for research based on this patent?
A: Future research could involve exploring new formulations, delivery methods, or combinations with other therapeutic agents, guided by the patent landscape analysis.
