United States Patent 5,292,740: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 5,292,740, titled "Sulfonamides," is a patent that has significant implications in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of drugs for various medical conditions. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
The patent, filed under the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), pertains to a class of compounds known as sulfonamides. These compounds have been designed for their therapeutic properties, particularly in treating disorders of the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and other medical conditions[1].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by the specific chemical structures and their therapeutic applications. Here are the key aspects:
Chemical Structure
The patent describes sulfonamides of a specific formula, where various substituents (R1 to R10) can be modified to create different compounds. For example:
- R1 can be hydrogen.
- R5 can be hydrogen, lower-alkyl, lower-alkanoyl, benzoyl, heterocyclylcarbonyl, or other specified groups.
- R6 to R9 can include a range of substituents such as halogen, trifluoromethyl, lower-alkyl, lower-alkoxy, and others.
- Z can be --O--, --S--, ethylene, vinylene, --CO--, or other specified linkers[1].
Therapeutic Applications
The compounds are intended for various therapeutic uses, including:
- Centrally acting analgesics.
- Antimigraine agents.
- Vasodilators for multiple indications.
- Drugs for disorders of the cardiovascular system, including ischaemic or atherosclerotic diseases[1].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are crucial as they define the legal boundaries of the invention. Here are some key points:
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that outline the specific chemical structures and their uses. For instance, Claim 1 might describe a broad class of sulfonamides with specific substituents, while subsequent claims might narrow down to more specific compounds or uses[1].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims, providing additional details or limitations. These claims help to further define the scope of the invention and can include specific examples of compounds or methods of preparation[1].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape is essential for assessing the impact and validity of the patent.
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape for sulfonamides is complex, with numerous related patents and applications. For example, other patents might cover similar chemical structures but with different therapeutic applications or methods of synthesis. The landscape also includes patents from other pharmaceutical companies, such as Actelion Pharmaceuticals, which have been involved in licensing and litigation related to similar compounds[5].
Litigation and Licensing
The patent has been involved in legal disputes, particularly regarding its exclusivity and the licensing agreements. For instance, the case of Mayor & City Council of Balt. v. Actelion Pharm. Ltd. highlights the complexities of patent litigation and the economic implications of exclusive licenses[5].
Patent Quality and Scope
The debate over patent quality and scope is relevant here. Critics argue that some patents, including those in the pharmaceutical sector, may have overly broad claims or lack clarity, which can impede innovation and increase litigation costs. Metrics such as independent claim length and count can be used to measure patent scope and clarity[3].
Impact on the Pharmaceutical Industry
The patent has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry:
Innovation and Competition
The patent's broad claims can influence the competitive landscape by limiting the ability of other companies to develop similar compounds. This can either stifle innovation or drive companies to find alternative solutions, potentially leading to new breakthroughs.
Regulatory and Legal Considerations
Pharmaceutical companies must navigate the complex regulatory and legal environment surrounding such patents. This includes ensuring compliance with patent laws, negotiating licensing agreements, and defending against potential litigation.
Preparation and Synthesis
The patent also provides detailed methods for the preparation and synthesis of these sulfonamides. Understanding these processes is crucial for manufacturing and quality control.
Chemical Synthesis
The synthesis involves specific steps and reagents, such as the coupling of various chemical groups and the use of solvents like ethylene glycol. The process must be carefully controlled to achieve the desired purity and yield[4].
Conclusion
United States Patent 5,292,740 is a comprehensive patent that covers a wide range of sulfonamides with various therapeutic applications. The scope and claims of the patent are detailed and specific, defining the legal boundaries of the invention. The patent landscape is complex, involving related patents, litigation, and licensing agreements. Understanding these aspects is crucial for pharmaceutical companies to navigate the industry effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical Structure: The patent describes sulfonamides with specific substituents and linkers.
- Therapeutic Applications: The compounds are intended for treating disorders of the nervous system, cardiovascular system, and other conditions.
- Claims: Independent and dependent claims define the scope of the invention.
- Patent Landscape: The landscape includes related patents, litigation, and licensing agreements.
- Impact on Industry: The patent influences innovation, competition, and regulatory compliance in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Synthesis: Detailed methods for preparing and synthesizing the compounds are provided.
FAQs
What is the main focus of United States Patent 5,292,740?
The main focus of the patent is on sulfonamides, specifically their chemical structures and therapeutic applications.
What are the therapeutic applications of the sulfonamides described in the patent?
The sulfonamides are intended for treating centrally acting analgesics, antimigraine agents, vasodilators, and drugs for disorders of the cardiovascular system.
How does the patent landscape affect the validity and impact of the patent?
The patent landscape, including related patents and litigation, can affect the validity and impact by defining the boundaries of the invention and influencing competition and innovation.
What are the key metrics for measuring patent scope and clarity?
Metrics such as independent claim length and count are used to measure patent scope and clarity.
How does the patent influence the pharmaceutical industry?
The patent influences innovation, competition, and regulatory compliance in the pharmaceutical industry by defining what can and cannot be developed or marketed.
Sources
- US5292740A - Sulfonamides - Google Patents
- United States Patent and Trademark Office - (12) - USPTO
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Hoover Institution
- Large scale process to prepare highly pure Bosentan monohydrate
- Mayor & City Council of Balt. v. Actelion Pharm. Ltd. - Federal Cases
