United States Patent 5,559,111: A Detailed Analysis
Introduction
United States Patent 5,559,111, titled "δ-amino-γ-hydroxy-ω-aryl-alkanoic acid amides," was granted for compounds with renin-inhibiting properties. This patent is significant in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the development of treatments for hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. Here, we will conduct a detailed analysis of the scope, claims, and the patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
- Publication Number: US5559111A
- Authority: United States
- Prior Art Date: The patent was filed on October 25, 1995, and granted on September 24, 1996[4].
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers a class of compounds known as δ-amino-γ-hydroxy-ω-aryl-alkanoic acid amides. These compounds are characterized by their specific chemical structure and are noted for their renin-inhibiting properties. Renin is an enzyme involved in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which plays a crucial role in blood pressure regulation.
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Compound Claims: The patent claims specific δ-amino-γ-hydroxy-ω-aryl-alkanoic acid amides and their salts. These claims are detailed and include various chemical groups such as methoxy, hydroxy, amino, and phenyl[4].
- Method Claims: While the primary focus is on the compounds, the patent may also include method claims related to the synthesis or use of these compounds.
- Use Claims: The patent specifies the use of these compounds as renin inhibitors, which can be applied in the treatment of hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions.
Chemical Structure and Composition
The compounds described in the patent have a specific chemical structure that includes:
- Amino Group: Attached to the δ-carbon.
- Hydroxy Group: Attached to the γ-carbon.
- Aryl Group: Attached to the ω-carbon.
- Amide Group: Forming part of the alkanoic acid amide structure[4].
Pharmaceutical Applications
These compounds are of significant interest in the pharmaceutical industry due to their potential in treating hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. The renin-inhibiting properties make them valuable in managing conditions related to the RAAS system.
Patent Landscape Analysis
To understand the broader context of this patent, a patent landscape analysis is essential.
Defining Scope and Keywords
The analysis begins by defining the technology field and identifying relevant keywords. For this patent, keywords would include "renin inhibitors," "δ-amino-γ-hydroxy-ω-aryl-alkanoic acid amides," and "cardiovascular treatments"[3].
Searching and Organizing Patents
Using databases such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and international patent databases like those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), relevant patents can be identified and organized. This involves categorizing patents by filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories[1][3].
Identifying Trends and Key Players
The analysis reveals trends in patent filings and identifies key players in the field. For renin inhibitors, companies like Novartis and Pfizer have been active in this area. Recognizing these trends helps in understanding the competitive landscape and potential collaborations or competitors[3].
Analyzing Citations and Evolution
Studying how patents reference each other provides insights into the impact and development of the technology. This analysis can show how the patented compounds have influenced subsequent research and innovations in the field[3].
Generating Insights for Decisions
The outcomes of the patent landscape analysis are translated into practical guidance for strategic decisions. This includes evaluating the competitive landscape, identifying potential legal vulnerabilities, and determining the strength of the patent portfolio. For example, understanding the expiration dates of related patents can help in planning future research and development strategies[3].
Competitive Landscape
The competitive landscape for renin inhibitors is dynamic, with several pharmaceutical companies investing in research and development. Key insights from the patent landscape analysis include:
- Market Leaders: Companies that have a strong portfolio of patents related to renin inhibitors.
- Emerging Players: New entrants in the market who are filing patents in this area.
- Technological Trends: Advances in the synthesis and application of renin inhibitors.
Legal Considerations
Understanding the legal status and potential vulnerabilities is crucial. Since the patent has expired, the compounds and methods described are now in the public domain. However, any subsequent improvements or new applications may still be patented, and it is important to ensure that any new developments do not infringe on existing patents.
Conclusion
United States Patent 5,559,111 is a significant contribution to the field of cardiovascular treatments, particularly in the area of renin inhibitors. The detailed analysis of its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape provides valuable insights for researchers, inventors, and business professionals. This information can guide strategic decisions, help in identifying trends and key players, and ensure compliance with existing intellectual property rights.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers specific δ-amino-γ-hydroxy-ω-aryl-alkanoic acid amides and their salts.
- Pharmaceutical Applications: These compounds have renin-inhibiting properties, useful in treating hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases.
- Patent Landscape: The analysis reveals trends, key players, and technological advancements in the field of renin inhibitors.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, but subsequent improvements or new applications may still be patented.
- Strategic Insights: The analysis provides guidance for strategic decisions, including evaluating the competitive landscape and potential legal vulnerabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 5,559,111?
A: The main subject is δ-amino-γ-hydroxy-ω-aryl-alkanoic acid amides with renin-inhibiting properties.
Q: What are the potential applications of the compounds described in the patent?
A: The compounds are used in the treatment of hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases due to their renin-inhibiting properties.
Q: How can one conduct a patent landscape analysis for this technology field?
A: By defining the scope and keywords, searching and organizing patents, identifying trends and key players, analyzing citations and evolution, and generating insights for decisions[3].
Q: What is the current legal status of United States Patent 5,559,111?
A: The patent has expired, making the described compounds and methods part of the public domain.
Q: Why is it important to analyze the patent landscape for renin inhibitors?
A: It provides insights into technological trends, key players, and potential legal vulnerabilities, guiding strategic decisions in research and development.
Sources Cited:
- USPTO - Search for patents
- USA.gov - U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- Goldstein Patent Law - How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis
- Google Patents - US5559111A
