United States Patent 5,364,842: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 5,364,842, titled "Method of producing analgesia," is a significant patent in the field of pain management and analgesic research. This patent, issued to researchers involved in the development of novel analgesic methods, provides insights into the treatment of chronic and intractable pain. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Context
The patent, filed in 1993 and granted in 1994, addresses the need for effective analgesic methods, particularly in treating conditions such as degenerative bone diseases and cancer. The invention involves the use of omega-conopeptides to enhance the effects of opioid compounds and to produce analgesia independently of opioid treatment[4].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent encompasses methods for producing analgesia and enhancing opiate analgesia. Here are the key aspects:
Method of Producing Analgesia
The patent describes a method of administering TVIA (SNX-185) or MVIIA (SNX-111) to produce analgesia. These omega-conopeptides have specific binding and inhibitory properties that affect nociceptive pathways, reducing pain perception[4].
Enhancement of Opiate Analgesia
The invention includes a method of enhancing the analgesic effect produced by the administration of opiates. This is achieved by combining omega-conopeptides with opioid compounds, which synergistically increase the analgesic effect[4].
Independent Analgesia
The patent also covers the use of omega-conopeptides to produce analgesia in the absence of opioid treatment. This is particularly useful for patients who may have developed tolerance to opioids or have contraindications for opioid use[4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Claim 1
The first claim describes the method of producing analgesia by administering a specific omega-conopeptide to a mammalian subject. This claim sets the foundation for the subsequent claims by defining the core method of the invention[4].
Dependent Claims
Subsequent claims are dependent on the first claim and provide additional details such as the specific types of omega-conopeptides used, the method of administration, and the conditions under which the method is effective. These claims narrow down the scope to specific embodiments of the invention[4].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent cites prior art related to the use of omega-conopeptides in treating ischemia-related neuronal damage and their inhibitory and binding activities. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,051,403 is mentioned as prior art that describes the use of omega-conopeptides in a different context[4].
Related Patents
The patent landscape includes other patents related to analgesic methods and the use of conopeptides. These patents often overlap in their claims and scope, reflecting the ongoing research and development in pain management. For instance, patents related to the synthesis and use of conopeptides for various therapeutic applications are part of this landscape.
Global Dossier and Patent Family
Using tools like the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO, one can see the patent family for this specific application, including all related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the global reach and variations of the patent[1].
Technical Details
Synthesis of Omega-Conopeptides
The patent describes the synthesis process of the omega-conopeptides, including the use of protected peptide resin, liquid hydrofluoric acid for deblocking, and the formation of disulfide linkages through air oxidation or a chemically directed process[4].
Biological Activity
The biological activity of these peptides is detailed, including their IC50 concentrations and their effect on calcium current amplitudes. This technical data supports the efficacy of the method described in the patent[4].
Economic and Practical Implications
Market Impact
The invention has significant implications for the pharmaceutical market, particularly in the area of pain management. The ability to enhance opioid analgesia and provide an alternative to opioid treatment can address a substantial medical need and potentially reduce the economic burden associated with chronic pain.
Legal and Policy Considerations
The patent's legal status and any potential extensions or disputes are crucial. For example, an application under 35 U.S.C. ยง 156 for patent term extension might have been filed, as seen in related documents[5].
Conclusion
United States Patent 5,364,842 represents a critical advancement in the field of analgesic research. The detailed analysis of its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape highlights its significance and the ongoing efforts in pain management.
Key Takeaways
- Method of Producing Analgesia: The patent describes a method using omega-conopeptides to produce analgesia and enhance opioid effects.
- Scope and Claims: The patent includes claims that define the method, types of omega-conopeptides, and conditions for their use.
- Technical Details: The synthesis and biological activity of the omega-conopeptides are detailed.
- Economic and Practical Implications: The invention has significant market and practical implications for pain management.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a larger landscape of related patents and global dossier applications.
FAQs
What is the main invention described in United States Patent 5,364,842?
The main invention is a method of producing analgesia using omega-conopeptides, either independently or to enhance the effects of opioid compounds.
What are omega-conopeptides, and how do they work?
Omega-conopeptides are peptides derived from cone snails that have specific binding and inhibitory properties. They affect nociceptive pathways, reducing pain perception by inhibiting calcium currents.
How does this patent impact the pharmaceutical market?
This patent impacts the pharmaceutical market by providing a new method for pain management, potentially reducing the reliance on opioids and addressing the need for effective analgesic treatments.
What is the significance of the Global Dossier in relation to this patent?
The Global Dossier allows users to see the patent family for this specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices, providing a comprehensive view of the patent's global reach.
Are there any legal or policy considerations related to this patent?
Yes, there could be legal considerations such as patent term extensions or disputes. Additionally, policy considerations might include the regulation of new analgesic methods and their impact on public health.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court: https://www.acus.gov/research-projects/us-patent-small-claims-court
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - US5364842A: https://patents.google.com/patent/US5364842A/en
- USPTO - Certificate for Patent Term Extension: https://www.uspto.gov/sites/default/files/web/offices/pac/dapp/opla/term/certs/5364842.pdf
