Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 4,886,808
Introduction
United States Patent 4,886,808, issued on December 12, 1989, is a significant patent that has contributed to the field of pharmaceuticals. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Title and Inventors:
The patent titled "endo-N-(9-methyl-9-azabicyclo[3.3.1]non-3-yl)-1-methyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride" was invented by a team of researchers, with the specific inventors not detailed in the provided sources but typically listed in the patent document itself.
Assignee:
The patent is assigned to Hoffmann-La Roche Inc., a prominent pharmaceutical company known for its innovative contributions to the field of medicine[1].
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers a specific chemical compound, "endo-N-(9-methyl-9-azabicyclo[3.3.1]non-3-yl)-1-methyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride," and its formulations. Here are the key aspects of the scope:
Chemical Compound
The patent describes the synthesis and properties of the compound, which is a derivative of indazole. This compound is of interest due to its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the field of oncology and other medical treatments[1].
Formulations
The patent includes detailed descriptions of multidose aqueous formulations of the compound. These formulations are designed to enhance stability, shelf life, and ease of administration. For instance, the patent specifies the use of citric acid and benzyl alcohol in the formulations to ensure stability against bacterial, mold, and yeast contamination[1].
Claims of the Patent
The claims section of the patent is crucial as it defines the legal boundaries of the invention. Here are some key claims:
Composition Claims
The patent claims cover the specific chemical composition of the compound and its salts, particularly the hydrochloride salt. These claims are essential for protecting the unique chemical structure of the invention[1].
Method Claims
The patent also includes method claims related to the preparation and administration of the compound. This includes the process of synthesizing the compound and the methods for formulating it into a stable and usable form[1].
Use Claims
Use claims are another important aspect, as they specify the intended therapeutic uses of the compound. These claims are critical for protecting the invention's application in medical treatments[1].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Citations
The patent cites several prior art references, including other patents and scientific publications. For example, it references works by King, Oakley et al., and various journal articles that provide context and background to the invention[1].
Global Dossier and International Implications
While the patent is specific to the United States, its implications can be global. The Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO allows users to access file histories of related applications from participating IP offices, which can be useful for understanding the international patent landscape surrounding this invention[4].
Patent Scope Metrics
Research on patent scope metrics, such as independent claim length and independent claim count, can provide insights into the breadth and clarity of the patent claims. Narrower claims, as seen in some analyses, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and shorter examination processes[3].
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
Inventorship
Determining the true and only inventors is crucial for the validity of the patent. US patent law requires that the inventors listed are those who conceived the idea and reduced it to practice. Incorrect or incomplete identification of inventors can lead to challenges and potential invalidation of the patent[5].
Patent Term and Corrections
The patent term is subject to the twenty-year provisions of 35 U.S.C. ยง 154(a)(2), and any corrections or adjustments are made according to USPTO procedures. The patent document includes a certificate of correction to ensure accuracy and compliance with patent laws[1].
Impact and Applications
The compound and its formulations covered by this patent have potential applications in various therapeutic areas. For instance, similar compounds have been studied for their anticancer properties, highlighting the significance of this invention in the pharmaceutical industry[1].
Key Takeaways
- Chemical Compound: The patent covers a specific indazole derivative with potential therapeutic applications.
- Formulations: Detailed descriptions of multidose aqueous formulations ensure stability and ease of administration.
- Claims: Composition, method, and use claims protect the invention's unique aspects.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape that includes prior art, international implications, and specific metrics for evaluating patent scope.
- Legal Aspects: Correct inventorship and compliance with patent laws are essential for the patent's validity.
FAQs
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What is the main subject matter of United States Patent 4,886,808?
- The patent covers the chemical compound "endo-N-(9-methyl-9-azabicyclo[3.3.1]non-3-yl)-1-methyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride" and its formulations.
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Who is the assignee of this patent?
- The patent is assigned to Hoffmann-La Roche Inc.
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What are the key components of the multidose aqueous formulations described in the patent?
- The formulations include citric acid and benzyl alcohol to ensure stability against contamination.
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How does the patent protect the invention?
- The patent includes composition, method, and use claims to protect the unique aspects of the invention.
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Why is correct inventorship important for this patent?
- Correct inventorship is crucial for the validity of the patent, as incorrect or incomplete identification can lead to challenges and potential invalidation.
Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. US 6,294,548 B1, September 25, 2001.
- Performance.gov. USPTO, [Accessed December 19, 2024].
- SSRN. Patent Claims and Patent Scope, September 29, 2016.
- USPTO. Search for patents, October 18, 2018.
- Oregon State University. Determining Inventorship for US Patent Applications, [Accessed December 19, 2024].