United States Patent 5,362,475: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 5,362,475, titled "Gadolinium chelates for magnetic resonance imaging," was assigned to Bayer Pharma AG and has been a significant contribution to the field of diagnostic imaging. This patent, now expired, provides valuable insights into the development and use of gadolinium chelates in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Background and Context
The patent was filed on July 24, 1991, and granted on November 8, 1994. It falls under the category of diagnostic media, specifically focusing on the use of gadolinium chelates as contrast agents in MRI procedures[4].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent revolves around the composition and application of gadolinium chelates. Here are the key aspects:
Composition
The patent describes a diagnostic medium containing at least one physiologically well-tolerated complex salt comprising an anion of a complexing acid and one or more gadolinium ions. These chelates are designed to be stable and safe for use in humans, enhancing the contrast in MRI images[4].
Application
The primary application of these gadolinium chelates is in magnetic resonance imaging. They are used to improve the visibility of internal body structures, aiding in the diagnosis of various medical conditions. The patent details the formulation and preparation of these chelates, ensuring they are suitable for medical use[4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- The patent claims a diagnostic medium containing a specific complex salt with gadolinium ions.
- It also claims the method of preparing these chelates and their use in MRI procedures[4].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the types of complexing acids and the conditions under which the chelates are prepared.
- They also detail the pharmaceutical formulations and the administration methods of these chelates[4].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent cites several prior art references related to complexing acids and the use of gadolinium in medical imaging. These references highlight the existing knowledge in the field and how the current invention improves upon it[4].
Related Patents
Other patents related to gadolinium chelates and MRI contrast agents have been filed and granted. For example, patents like US-5676923-A also deal with similar compositions and applications, indicating a robust and evolving field in diagnostic imaging[5].
International Patent Family
The patent is part of an international patent family, with corresponding patents filed in other countries. This is evident from the Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO, which allows users to see the patent family for a specific application across participating IP offices[1].
Technical Details
Chemical Composition
The patent describes the chemical composition of the gadolinium chelates in detail. It includes the use of specific complexing acids like pentetic acid and the formation of stable complexes with gadolinium ions. The chemical structures and formulas of these compounds are provided, along with their properties and effects[4].
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process involves the synthesis of the complexing acid and its subsequent reaction with gadolinium ions. The patent outlines the steps and conditions necessary to produce these chelates, ensuring their purity and stability[4].
Economic and Market Impact
The introduction of gadolinium chelates as MRI contrast agents has had a significant impact on the medical imaging market. These agents have improved the diagnostic accuracy and safety of MRI procedures, leading to widespread adoption in medical practices.
Market Statistics
The market for MRI contrast agents has grown substantially since the introduction of gadolinium chelates. According to industry reports, the global market for MRI contrast agents was valued at several billion dollars and continues to grow due to advancements in diagnostic imaging technologies.
Legal Status
The patent has expired, which means that the technology described is now in the public domain. This expiration allows other companies to develop and market similar products without infringing on the original patent[4].
Conclusion
United States Patent 5,362,475 has played a crucial role in the development of MRI contrast agents. The detailed analysis of its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape provides insights into the evolution of diagnostic imaging technologies.
Key Takeaways
- Composition and Application: The patent focuses on the composition and application of gadolinium chelates as MRI contrast agents.
- Claims and Scope: The claims define the specific complex salts, their preparation, and their use in MRI procedures.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a larger landscape of diagnostic imaging technologies, with related patents and international filings.
- Technical Details: The patent provides detailed chemical and manufacturing information.
- Market Impact: The introduction of these chelates has significantly impacted the medical imaging market.
FAQs
What is the primary use of the invention described in US Patent 5,362,475?
The primary use is as a contrast agent in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to enhance the visibility of internal body structures.
Who was the assignee of US Patent 5,362,475?
The assignee was Bayer Pharma AG.
What is the current legal status of US Patent 5,362,475?
The patent has expired, making the technology described in the public domain.
How do gadolinium chelates improve MRI images?
Gadolinium chelates improve MRI images by enhancing the contrast between different tissues, allowing for better diagnostic accuracy.
Are there other patents related to gadolinium chelates?
Yes, there are other patents related to similar compositions and applications, indicating a robust field in diagnostic imaging.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- PatentBuddy - US Patent No. 5362475: http://www.patentbuddy.com/Patent/5362475
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - US5362475A: https://patents.google.com/patent/US5362475A/en
- Unified Patents Portal - US-5676923-A: https://portal.unifiedpatents.com/patents/patent/US-5676923-A
