Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,789,736
Introduction
United States Patent 4,789,736, titled "Complexes of Technetium-99m with Propylene Amine Oximes," is a significant patent in the field of medical diagnostics. This patent, issued to various inventors, pertains to the development of diagnostic pharmaceuticals using technetium-99m, a radioactive isotope commonly used in medical imaging.
Patent Overview
Publication Number and Authority
The patent number is US4789736A, and it was issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)[2].
Prior Art and Background
The invention builds upon prior art in the field of radiopharmaceuticals, particularly those involving technetium-99m. The patent acknowledges the need for stable and effective complexes of technetium-99m for diagnostic purposes.
Legal Status
As of the current date, the patent has expired, marking the end of its lifetime[2].
Claims and Scope
Main Claims
The patent includes several key claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims typically involve the preparation and use of complexes of technetium-99m with propylene amine oximes. Here are some of the main claims:
- Claim 1: This claim describes the general composition of the technetium-99m complex with propylene amine oximes, highlighting the specific chemical structure and its diagnostic application.
- Claims 5, 6, 7, 13, and 15: These claims detail the specific methods of preparation, the stability of the complexes, and their use in medical diagnostics. These claims are particularly important as they outline the practical application and uniqueness of the invention[2].
Claim Dependency
The claims are interdependent, with some claims building upon others to provide a comprehensive description of the invention. For example, the method of preparation (Claim 5) is crucial for understanding how the stable complexes are formed, which in turn supports the diagnostic use claims (Claims 6 and 7)[2].
Classification and Categories
International Patent Classification (IPC)
The patent is classified under several IPC categories, including:
- A61K51/00: Preparations containing radioactive substances for use in therapy or testing in vivo.
- A61K51/02: Preparations containing radioactive substances characterized by the carrier or agent covalently linked or complexing the radioactive nucleus.
- A61K51/04: Organic compounds used as carriers or agents[2].
Areas of Application
The patent falls under various areas of application, including:
- Health & Medical Sciences
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences
- Medicinal Chemistry
- Pharmacology & Pharmacy
These categories reflect the broad impact of the invention across medical and scientific fields[2].
Patent Landscape
Global Context
To understand the broader patent landscape, it is essential to look at similar patents and applications globally. Tools like the USPTO's Global Dossier and the Common Citation Document (CCD) can provide insights into related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in identifying prior art and potential overlaps or innovations in the field[1].
Related Patents and Applications
Searching through databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) can reveal similar or related patents. For instance, the PATENTSCOPE ® Search Service by WIPO allows for full-text searches of international patent applications, which can help in mapping the global patent landscape related to technetium-99m complexes[1].
Practical Applications
Diagnostic Use
The complexes described in the patent are designed for use in medical diagnostics, particularly in imaging techniques. These complexes are stable and capable of crossing biological barriers, making them highly effective for diagnostic purposes.
Clinical Significance
The invention has significant clinical implications, as it provides a reliable and efficient method for preparing technetium-99m complexes. This can lead to improved diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes in various medical conditions.
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide insights into the trends and measurements of patent scope, including those related to medical diagnostics. This dataset can help researchers and economists understand the impact of patents like US4789736A on the broader medical and pharmaceutical industries[3].
Economic Impact
The expiration of the patent means that the technology is now in the public domain, potentially leading to increased competition and innovation in the field of radiopharmaceuticals. This can drive down costs and improve accessibility of diagnostic tools.
Conclusion
United States Patent 4,789,736 represents a significant advancement in the field of medical diagnostics, particularly in the use of technetium-99m complexes. Understanding the claims, scope, and classification of this patent provides valuable insights into its practical applications and its place within the broader patent landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers the preparation and use of technetium-99m complexes with propylene amine oximes for diagnostic purposes.
- Claims: Key claims include the composition, preparation methods, and diagnostic use of the complexes.
- Classification: Classified under A61K51/00 and related categories.
- Global Context: Part of a broader global patent landscape involving similar applications and prior art.
- Practical Applications: Significant in medical diagnostics, particularly in imaging techniques.
- Economic Impact: Expiration of the patent could lead to increased competition and innovation in radiopharmaceuticals.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 4,789,736?
A: The main subject is the complexes of technetium-99m with propylene amine oximes used as diagnostic pharmaceuticals.
Q: What are the key claims of this patent?
A: The key claims include the composition, preparation methods, and diagnostic use of the technetium-99m complexes.
Q: Under which IPC categories is this patent classified?
A: It is classified under A61K51/00, A61K51/02, and A61K51/04 among others.
Q: What is the current legal status of this patent?
A: The patent has expired.
Q: How can one search for related patents globally?
A: Using tools like the USPTO's Global Dossier, Common Citation Document (CCD), and databases from other international intellectual property offices such as EPO, JPO, and WIPO.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Google Patents - Complexes of technetium-99m with propylene amine oximes. Retrieved from https://patents.google.com/patent/US4789736A/en
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- NYS Library - United States Patents: Collections. Retrieved from https://www.nysl.nysed.gov/reference/patents/
