Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,833,130: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Understanding the scope and claims of a patent is crucial for inventors, researchers, and businesses to navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property. This article will delve into the specifics of United States Patent 4,833,130, focusing on its claims, scope, and the broader patent landscape it inhabits.
Background of United States Patent 4,833,130
United States Patent 4,833,130, titled "2',3'-Dideoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine and 2',3'-dideoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine triphosphate," was granted to Burroughs Wellcome Co. on May 23, 1989. This patent is significant in the field of antiretroviral therapy, particularly for the treatment of HIV/AIDS.
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are the key claims:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1: This claim describes the compound 2',3'-dideoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine, also known as d4T or stavudine.
- Claim 2: This claim covers the triphosphate form of the compound, which is crucial for its antiviral activity.
- Claim 3: This claim encompasses methods for preparing the compound and its triphosphate form.
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the methods of synthesis, purification, and use of the compound and its triphosphate form in antiviral therapies.
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by its claims and the detailed description provided in the specification.
Compound and Its Derivatives
The patent protects the specific chemical structure of 2',3'-dideoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine and its triphosphate form. This includes any variations in the synthesis process that result in the same compound.
Methods of Preparation
The patent covers various methods for synthesizing and purifying the compound, ensuring that any similar methods would infringe on the patent.
Therapeutic Use
The patent also includes claims related to the use of the compound in treating viral infections, particularly HIV/AIDS.
Patent Landscape Analysis
To understand the broader context of this patent, a patent landscape analysis is essential.
Defining Scope and Keywords
A patent landscape analysis begins by defining the technology field and identifying relevant keywords. For this patent, keywords would include "2',3'-dideoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine," "stavudine," "antiretroviral therapy," and "HIV/AIDS treatment"[3].
Search and Organize Patents
Using databases such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool or international databases like PATENTSCOPE, one can retrieve and organize patents related to these keywords. This helps in identifying similar patents and understanding the competitive landscape[1].
Identify Trends and Key Players
Analyzing the patent filings over time reveals trends in antiretroviral therapy research and development. Key players in this field include pharmaceutical companies like Burroughs Wellcome (now part of GlaxoSmithKline), Bristol-Myers Squibb, and others.
Analyze Citations and Evolution
Studying how patents reference each other provides insights into the development and impact of the technology. For example, patents citing 4,833,130 would indicate its influence on subsequent research and innovations[3].
Insights from Patent Landscape Analysis
Technological Trends
The analysis shows a significant focus on nucleoside analogs as antiretroviral agents in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This trend reflects the urgent need for effective treatments for HIV/AIDS during that period.
Key Players
Burroughs Wellcome, along with other pharmaceutical giants, played a pivotal role in developing and patenting antiretroviral drugs. This dominance is evident from the number of patents held by these companies in the antiretroviral therapy domain.
Legal Vulnerabilities
Understanding the patent landscape also helps in identifying potential legal vulnerabilities. For instance, the validity of Burroughs Wellcome's AZT patents was upheld in several legal challenges, indicating the robustness of their patent portfolio[5].
Practical Insights for Strategic Decisions
Competitive Landscape
The patent landscape analysis provides a clear picture of the competitive landscape in antiretroviral therapy. This information is crucial for companies looking to enter or expand in this market.
Innovation Opportunities
Identifying gaps in the existing patent landscape can reveal opportunities for innovation. For example, new delivery methods or formulations of existing antiretroviral drugs could be areas for further research and development.
Licensing and Collaboration
Understanding the patent holdings of key players can facilitate licensing agreements or collaborations. This is particularly important in the pharmaceutical industry, where joint efforts can accelerate the development of new treatments.
Conclusion
Analyzing the scope and claims of United States Patent 4,833,130, along with a broader patent landscape analysis, provides valuable insights into the antiretroviral therapy domain. This information is essential for inventors, researchers, and businesses to make informed decisions about innovation, licensing, and legal strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Claims: The patent protects the compound 2',3'-dideoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine and its triphosphate form, along with methods for its preparation and use.
- Scope: The patent's scope includes the specific chemical structure, synthesis methods, and therapeutic use.
- Patent Landscape: The analysis reveals trends in antiretroviral therapy, key players, and potential legal vulnerabilities.
- Strategic Insights: The analysis provides insights into the competitive landscape, innovation opportunities, and the importance of licensing and collaboration.
FAQs
What is the main compound protected by United States Patent 4,833,130?
The main compound protected is 2',3'-dideoxy-2',3'-didehydrothymidine, also known as stavudine.
Who was the patent granted to?
The patent was granted to Burroughs Wellcome Co.
What is the significance of this patent in the pharmaceutical industry?
This patent is significant in the development of antiretroviral therapies for treating HIV/AIDS.
How can a patent landscape analysis help in understanding this patent?
A patent landscape analysis helps in identifying trends, key players, and potential legal vulnerabilities in the antiretroviral therapy domain.
What are some potential innovation opportunities revealed by the patent landscape analysis?
The analysis can reveal opportunities for new delivery methods or formulations of existing antiretroviral drugs.
Sources
- USPTO: Search for patents - USPTO. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Acquisition.gov: Requirements for filing an administrative claim for patent infringement. Retrieved from https://www.acquisition.gov/dfars/227.7004-requirements-filing-administrative-claim-patent-infringement.
- Goldstein Patent Law: How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis. Retrieved from https://www.goldsteinpatentlaw.com/how-to-patent-landscape-analysis/
- Google Patents: WO1994003471A1 - Controlled release pharmaceutical formulations of 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine and methods of use. Retrieved from https://patents.google.com/patent/WO1994003471A1/en
- CITELINE: FIVE BURROUGHS WELLCOME AZT PATENTS UPHELD ON APPEAL. Retrieved from http://medtech.citeline.com/PS025351/FIVE-BURROUGHS-WELLCOME-AZT-PATENTS-UPHELD-ON-APPEAL-SIXTH-IS-REMANDED-TO-LOWER-COURT-FOR-FURTHER-PROCEEDINGS-NOVOPHARM-WILL-PRESS-ON-WITH-LITIGATION
