United States Patent 5,047,407: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 5,047,407, titled "2-substituted-5-substituted-1,3-oxathiolanes with antiviral properties," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral drugs. This patent, issued to researchers and pharmaceutical companies, outlines novel compounds and their synthesis, which have shown promising antiviral activities.
Background and Context
The patent was granted for the discovery of new 1,3-oxathiolane cyclic compounds that exhibit pharmacological activity, specifically antiviral properties. These compounds are crucial in the fight against various viral infections, and their development marks an important milestone in pharmaceutical research[1].
Scope of the Patent
Novel Compounds
The patent describes the synthesis and properties of 2-substituted-5-substituted-1,3-oxathiolanes. These compounds are characterized by their unique structural features, which include various substituents at the 2 and 5 positions of the 1,3-oxathiolane ring. The scope includes the geometric and optical isomers of these compounds, as well as their mixtures[1].
Antiviral Properties
The primary focus of the patent is on the antiviral properties of these compounds. The inventors have identified that these 1,3-oxathiolanes exhibit significant activity against various viruses, making them potential candidates for antiviral therapies.
Synthesis Methods
The patent details several methods for synthesizing these compounds. These methods involve complex chemical reactions, including the use of specific reagents and conditions to achieve the desired substitutions on the 1,3-oxathiolane ring. For example, the patent describes the use of tin chloride as a Lewis acid to condense a 1,3-oxathiolane with a protected pyrimidine base[4].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims cover the novel 1,3-oxathiolane compounds, their geometric and optical isomers, and the methods for their synthesis. The claims are specific about the structural features of the compounds, including the types of substituents allowed at the 2 and 5 positions[1].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further narrow down the scope by specifying particular embodiments of the invention. These claims may include specific substituents, synthesis conditions, or methods of purification that are part of the overall process.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent landscape surrounding U.S. Patent 5,047,407 includes several related patents that deal with similar compounds and synthesis methods. For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,204,466 describes a method to condense a 1,3-oxathiolane with a protected pyrimidine base, while U.S. Patent No. 5,466,806 details a process for preparing a 2-hydroxymethyl-5-hydroxy-1,3-oxathiolane[4].
International Patent Filings
The invention covered by U.S. Patent 5,047,407 may also have international filings. Researchers and companies often file patents in multiple jurisdictions to protect their intellectual property globally. Tools like the Global Dossier and Patent Public Search provided by the USPTO can help track these international filings[2].
Impact on Pharmaceutical Research
Antiviral Therapies
The compounds described in this patent have significant implications for the development of antiviral therapies. The antiviral properties of these 1,3-oxathiolanes make them potential candidates for treating various viral infections, which is a critical area of research given the ongoing need for effective antiviral drugs.
Future Research Directions
The patent opens up avenues for further research into the pharmacological properties of 1,3-oxathiolanes. Future studies could focus on optimizing the synthesis methods, exploring the mechanism of action of these compounds, and conducting clinical trials to assess their efficacy and safety in humans.
Metrics for Patent Scope
Claim Length and Count
Research on patent scope suggests that metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be useful in evaluating the breadth of a patent. Narrower claims, as seen in the examination process of this patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Legal Status and Expiration
The legal status of U.S. Patent 5,047,407 indicates that it has expired due to the lapse of time since its issuance. This means that the protected intellectual property is now in the public domain, allowing other researchers and companies to use and build upon the disclosed inventions without infringing on the original patent.
Conclusion
U.S. Patent 5,047,407 is a pivotal patent in the field of antiviral drug development, detailing novel 1,3-oxathiolane compounds with significant antiviral properties. The scope of the patent includes specific claims about the compounds and their synthesis methods, which have been influential in pharmaceutical research. Understanding the patent landscape and the metrics for patent scope provides valuable insights into the impact and future directions of this invention.
Key Takeaways
- Novel Compounds: The patent introduces new 2-substituted-5-substituted-1,3-oxathiolanes with antiviral properties.
- Synthesis Methods: Detailed methods for synthesizing these compounds are provided.
- Antiviral Properties: The compounds exhibit significant activity against various viruses.
- Patent Landscape: Related patents and international filings are part of the broader patent landscape.
- Impact on Research: The patent has significant implications for antiviral therapy development.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, making the intellectual property public domain.
FAQs
Q: What are the main compounds described in U.S. Patent 5,047,407?
A: The main compounds are 2-substituted-5-substituted-1,3-oxathiolanes with antiviral properties.
Q: What is the significance of these compounds in pharmaceutical research?
A: These compounds are significant for their antiviral properties, making them potential candidates for treating various viral infections.
Q: How are these compounds synthesized?
A: The patent details several synthesis methods, including the use of specific reagents and conditions to achieve the desired substitutions on the 1,3-oxathiolane ring.
Q: What is the current legal status of U.S. Patent 5,047,407?
A: The patent has expired due to the lapse of time since its issuance.
Q: How does this patent impact future research in antiviral therapies?
A: The patent opens up avenues for further research into optimizing synthesis methods, exploring the mechanism of action, and conducting clinical trials to assess efficacy and safety.
Sources
- US5047407A - 2-substituted-5-substituted-1,3-oxathiolanes with antiviral properties - Google Patents
- Search for patents - USPTO
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Method of manufacture of 1,3-dioxolane and 1,3-oxathiolane - Google Patents
- Crystalline form of lamivudine - Google Patents
