United States Patent 4,839,342: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 4,839,342, titled "Method of increasing tear production by topical administration of cyclosporin," is a significant patent in the field of ophthalmology. This patent, granted in 1989, revolutionized the treatment of dry eye conditions, particularly those caused by autoimmune dysfunction of the lacrimal glands.
Background and Context
The patent was filed on September 3, 1987, by the assignee Sandoz Ltd., and it was granted on June 13, 1989. The invention pertains to a method for treating aqueous-deficient dry eye states using cyclosporin, an immunosuppressive agent[2].
Claims and Scope
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. The primary claim describes a method of increasing tear production in a patient suffering from an aqueous-deficient dry eye state due to an autoimmune dysfunction of the lacrimal glands. This method involves the topical administration of cyclosporin in a pharmaceutically acceptable formulation[2].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the composition and administration of the cyclosporin formulation. These claims include details about the concentration of cyclosporin, the type of oil used in the formulation, and the frequency of application[2].
Patent Landscape
Family Applications and Related Patents
The patent is part of a larger family of applications filed in various countries, including the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and others. These applications cover similar methods and compositions, highlighting the global relevance of this invention[2].
Citations and Prior Art
The patent cites several prior art documents related to the use of cyclosporin in ophthalmic treatments. It also has been cited by numerous subsequent patents, indicating its influence on the development of new treatments for dry eye conditions[2].
International Patent Databases
To understand the global patent landscape, one can refer to databases such as the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office's database, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's (WIPO) PATENTSCOPE® Search Service. These resources provide access to international patent applications and granted patents, including those related to this invention[1].
Patent Term and Status
The patent has expired, as indicated by its legal status. The expiration of the patent term allows other companies to develop and market similar products without infringing on the original patent[2].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset, which includes detailed information on claims from US patents granted between 1976 and 2014, can provide insights into the scope and impact of this patent. This dataset helps in understanding the trends and measurements of patent scope, including newly developed measures[3].
Industry Impact
The invention described in this patent has had a significant impact on the ophthalmic industry. It paved the way for the development of treatments like Restasis (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion), which is widely used today for treating dry eye syndrome.
Global Dossier and Office Actions
Using the Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO, one can access the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices. This service includes Office Action Indicators, which help identify applications with office actions, providing a comprehensive view of the patent family and its prosecution history[1].
Public Search Facilities and Resources
For further research, the USPTO Public Search Facility and Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) offer valuable resources. These facilities provide access to patent and trademark information in various formats and trained staff to assist in search techniques[1].
Sequence Listings and Other Mega Items
The Publication Site for Issued and Published Sequences (PSIPS) website can be used to access sequence listings, tables, and other mega items related to this patent, although this is more relevant for patents involving biological sequences[1].
Patent Assignment and Examination Data
The Patent Assignment Search website and the Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) can be used to track changes in ownership and examine the bibliographic data of patent applications related to this invention[1].
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Treatment: The patent introduced a novel method for treating dry eye conditions using cyclosporin.
- Global Impact: The invention has been filed and granted in multiple countries, reflecting its global significance.
- Industry Influence: It has influenced the development of subsequent treatments and products in the ophthalmic industry.
- Expired Status: The patent has expired, allowing for broader use and development of similar treatments.
- Research and Economic Implications: The patent is part of larger datasets and research initiatives that analyze patent scope and impact.
FAQs
What is the main claim of United States Patent 4,839,342?
The main claim describes a method of increasing tear production in patients with aqueous-deficient dry eye states by topically administering cyclosporin.
Why is this patent significant in the field of ophthalmology?
This patent is significant because it introduced a new and effective treatment for dry eye conditions caused by autoimmune dysfunction of the lacrimal glands.
How can I access related international patent applications?
You can access related international patent applications through databases such as the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office's database, and WIPO's PATENTSCOPE® Search Service.
What resources are available for searching and analyzing patent data?
Resources include the USPTO Public Search Facility, Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs), Global Dossier, and the Patent Examination Data System (PEDS).
Is the patent still in force?
No, the patent has expired, which means it is no longer enforceable and similar treatments can be developed without infringing on the original patent.
Cited Sources:
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Google Patents - US4839342A: https://patents.google.com/patent/US4839342A/en
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- U.S. Department of Commerce - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office: https://www.commerce.gov/bureaus-and-offices/uspto
- USPTO - UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Patent: https://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/sol/foia/comm/pte/4839342.pdf
