United States Patent 4,717,720: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,717,720, titled "Benzonaphthalene derivatives and compositions," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the treatment of dermatological conditions. This patent, issued to Galderma Laboratories, L.P., covers a range of benzonaphthalene derivatives and their use in therapeutic compositions.
Background and Context
The patent was filed in the context of developing new treatments for skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and other dermatological disorders. The compounds described in the patent are designed to be effective in topical and systemic applications.
Scope of the Patent
Chemical Compounds
The patent primarily focuses on benzonaphthalene derivatives, which are synthesized through specific chemical reactions involving naphthoic acid and other organic compounds. These derivatives include various substitutions such as alkyl, alkoxy, and hydroxy groups, which modify the pharmacological properties of the compounds[1].
Therapeutic Uses
The scope of the patent extends to the therapeutic uses of these benzonaphthalene derivatives. The compounds are administered at a daily dosage of about 2 μg/kg to 2 mg/kg of body weight and are effective in treating acne, psoriasis, and other skin disorders. The patent also covers methods of treating these conditions using these pharmaceutical compositions[1].
Claims of the Patent
Composition Claims
The patent includes claims related to the specific chemical structures of the benzonaphthalene derivatives. These claims detail the molecular composition, including the presence of adamantyl groups, methyl esters, and other functional groups that contribute to the therapeutic efficacy of the compounds[1].
Method Claims
In addition to composition claims, the patent also includes claims directed to methods of treating dermatological conditions using these pharmaceutical compositions. These method claims specify the dosage, administration routes, and expected therapeutic outcomes[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape surrounding US 4,717,720 includes other patents related to dermatological treatments and pharmaceutical compositions. For instance, patents like those held by Tolmar, Inc., which were involved in a legal dispute with Galderma, also cover similar therapeutic areas and chemical compounds[5].
Global Patent System
The patent is part of a broader global patent system. Tools like the Global Dossier and Common Citation Document (CCD) provided by the USPTO and other international intellectual property offices help in tracking related applications and prior art across different jurisdictions[4].
Patent Analytics and Claim Coverage
To understand the full scope and protection offered by this patent, patent analytics tools are crucial. These tools help in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to identify gaps or opportunities in intellectual property protection. For example, ClaimScape® software can generate interactive claim charts to review patent coverage and determine the applicability of scope concepts to target products or methods[3].
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
Patent Term Extension
The patent term for US 4,717,720 has been subject to extension based on the human drug product DIFFERIN GEL, which is a topical retinoid gel used for the treatment of acne. This extension reflects the regulatory approval process and the commercialization of the drug product[2].
Litigation and Disputes
The patent has been involved in legal disputes, such as the case between Galderma Labs., L.P. and Tolmar, Inc., which highlights the importance of robust patent protection and the need for thorough analysis of patent claims and scope[5].
Impact on Industry and Research
Innovation in Dermatology
The compounds and methods described in this patent have contributed significantly to the development of new treatments in dermatology. The use of benzonaphthalene derivatives has expanded the therapeutic options available for treating acne and other skin conditions.
Research and Development
The patent has also driven further research and development in the field of dermatological treatments. By protecting specific chemical structures and therapeutic methods, the patent encourages innovation while ensuring that intellectual property rights are respected.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical Compounds: The patent covers specific benzonaphthalene derivatives with various substitutions.
- Therapeutic Uses: The compounds are used in treating acne, psoriasis, and other dermatological conditions.
- Claims: The patent includes composition and method claims.
- Patent Landscape: Part of a broader global patent system with related patents and applications.
- Patent Analytics: Tools like ClaimScape® help in analyzing claim coverage and identifying gaps.
- Legal and Regulatory: Involved in patent term extensions and legal disputes.
FAQs
What are the primary compounds covered by US 4,717,720?
The primary compounds are benzonaphthalene derivatives with various substitutions such as alkyl, alkoxy, and hydroxy groups.
What are the therapeutic uses of the compounds described in the patent?
The compounds are used in treating acne, psoriasis, and other dermatological conditions.
How are the compounds administered?
The compounds are administered at a daily dosage of about 2 μg/kg to 2 mg/kg of body weight.
What tools are available for analyzing the patent landscape?
Tools like Global Dossier, Common Citation Document (CCD), and ClaimScape® software are available for analyzing the patent landscape.
Has the patent been involved in any legal disputes?
Yes, the patent has been involved in legal disputes, such as the case between Galderma Labs., L.P. and Tolmar, Inc.
Cited Sources
- US4717720A - Benzonaphthalene derivatives and compositions - Google Patents
- commerce - USPTO - USPTO
- Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law - SLWIP
- Search for patents - USPTO - USPTO
- Galderma Labs., L.P. v. Tolmar, Inc. - Federal Cases - Case Law - VLEX
