Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,246,925
Introduction
United States Patent 5,246,925, titled "19-nor-vitamin D compounds for use in treating hyperparathyroidism," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the treatment of hyperparathyroidism. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Number and Authority
The patent, numbered US5,246,925, was granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)[2].
Inventive Subject Matter
19-nor-Vitamin D Compounds
The patent describes a novel class of vitamin D-related compounds, specifically the 1α-hydroxy-19-nor-vitamin D analogs. These compounds are designed for the treatment of hyperparathyroidism, a condition characterized by an overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH)[2].
Claims
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are the key aspects:
- Independent Claims: These claims define the broadest scope of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe the general structure of the 1α-hydroxy-19-nor-vitamin D analogs and their use in treating hyperparathyroidism.
- Dependent Claims: These claims narrow down the scope by specifying particular aspects of the compounds, such as specific side chains or functional groups. For instance, dependent claims might detail the types of alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, or fluoroalkyl groups that can be part of the compound[2].
Scope Concepts
Chemical Structure and Functionality
The scope of the patent is heavily focused on the chemical structure and functionality of the 19-nor-vitamin D compounds. The patent specifies various groups and side chains that can be part of these compounds, including:
- Alkyl, hydroxyalkyl, and fluoroalkyl groups
- Specific configurations of these groups, such as the presence of hydroxy or O-acyl groups
- The overall structure of the vitamin D analogs, including the 1α-hydroxy and 19-nor configurations[2].
Patent Landscape
Global Context
To understand the broader patent landscape, it is essential to look beyond the U.S. patent system. Here are some key points:
- International Patent Offices: The invention may have been patented in other countries as well. Searching databases like those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) can reveal if similar patents exist globally[1].
- Global Dossier: This service allows users to view the patent family for a specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This can help in identifying similar patents and their status worldwide[1].
Prior Art and Citations
Common Citation Document (CCD)
The Common Citation Document (CCD) application consolidates prior art cited by all participating offices for the family members of a patent application. This tool can help in understanding the prior art landscape related to the 19-nor-vitamin D compounds and identify any overlapping or similar inventions[1].
Patent Analytics
Claim Coverage and Scope Concepts
Patent analytics tools, such as those provided by Schwegman, can help in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts. This can be particularly useful for companies holding multiple patents to understand which claims are actively protecting their intellectual property and where gaps or opportunities exist[3].
Practical Applications
Treatment of Hyperparathyroidism
The practical application of this patent is in the treatment of hyperparathyroidism. The 1α-hydroxy-19-nor-vitamin D analogs are designed to regulate PTH levels, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with this condition.
Legal Status
Expiration and Extensions
The legal status of the patent indicates that it has expired. However, it is important to check for any extensions or certifications that might have been filed, such as those under 35 U.S.C. § 156, which could potentially extend the patent term[5].
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
- Novel Compounds: The patent introduces novel 1α-hydroxy-19-nor-vitamin D analogs for treating hyperparathyroidism.
- Chemical Structure: The scope is defined by specific chemical structures and functional groups.
- Global Landscape: The invention may have global counterparts, and tools like Global Dossier and CCD can help in understanding the broader landscape.
- Patent Analytics: Tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and Claim Charts are essential for managing and analyzing the patent portfolio.
- Practical Application: The compounds are designed to treat hyperparathyroidism by regulating PTH levels.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, but extensions or certifications should be checked.
FAQs
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What is the main subject of United States Patent 5,246,925?
- The main subject is the invention of 1α-hydroxy-19-nor-vitamin D analogs for treating hyperparathyroidism.
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How can one search for similar patents globally?
- One can use databases provided by international patent offices such as the EPO, JPO, and WIPO, as well as the Global Dossier service.
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What is the purpose of the Common Citation Document (CCD)?
- The CCD consolidates prior art cited by all participating offices for the family members of a patent application, helping to visualize the prior art landscape on a single page.
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How can patent analytics tools help in managing patent portfolios?
- Patent analytics tools help in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, identifying gaps or opportunities in intellectual property protection.
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What is the current legal status of United States Patent 5,246,925?
- The patent has expired, but it is advisable to check for any extensions or certifications that might have been filed.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for Patents
- Google Patents - US5246925A
- Schwegman - Patent Analytics
- U.S. Department of Commerce - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
- USPTO - Certificate Extending Patent Term
