Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,756,451
Introduction
United States Patent 5,756,451, titled "Dimeric Disintegrins and Methods of Use," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly focusing on the development and application of disintegrins. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Invention
The patent 5,756,451 pertains to disintegrins, which are a class of compounds known for their ability to inhibit platelet aggregation by binding to integrins on the platelet surface. This invention is crucial in the context of cardiovascular diseases, where preventing platelet aggregation is a key therapeutic strategy[2].
Scope of the Invention
The scope of this patent is centered around dimeric disintegrins, which are designed to have enhanced potency and specificity compared to their monomeric counterparts. Here are some key aspects of the scope:
Composition of Dimeric Disintegrins
The patent describes the composition of dimeric disintegrins, which involve linking two disintegrin molecules through a peptide or other linker. This dimeric structure is designed to increase the affinity and efficacy of the disintegrin in inhibiting platelet aggregation[2].
Methods of Preparation
The patent outlines various methods for preparing these dimeric disintegrins, including chemical synthesis and recombinant DNA techniques. These methods are critical for ensuring the consistency and purity of the final product[2].
Therapeutic Applications
The scope extends to the therapeutic applications of these dimeric disintegrins, particularly in treating conditions such as thrombosis, stroke, and myocardial infarction. The patent highlights the potential of these compounds to be used as antithrombotic agents[2].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are detailed and specific, ensuring broad protection for the inventors while also defining the boundaries of the invention.
Independent Claims
The independent claims typically define the broadest scope of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe the dimeric disintegrin composition, including the specific structure and the linker used to connect the two disintegrin molecules[2].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further narrow down the scope by specifying particular aspects of the invention, such as specific linkers, methods of preparation, or therapeutic uses. These claims provide additional protection by covering various embodiments of the invention[2].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape around 5,756,451 involves examining related patents, prior art, and subsequent developments in the field.
Prior Art and Related Patents
The patent 5,756,451 builds upon earlier research and patents related to disintegrins. For instance, U.S. Patent Numbers 5,686,570 and 5,807,825, which are cited in related patent applications, provide background on the discovery and initial applications of disintegrins[2].
Subsequent Developments
Since the issuance of this patent, there have been significant advancements in the field of antithrombotic agents. Later patents and research have focused on optimizing the design of disintegrins, improving their pharmacokinetics, and exploring new therapeutic applications.
Impact on Innovation and Industry
The patent 5,756,451 has had a substantial impact on the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the development of antithrombotic therapies.
Innovation Incentives
The patent has provided a strong incentive for further innovation in the field by protecting the intellectual property of the inventors. This protection has encouraged additional research and development of disintegrins and related compounds[3].
Licensing and Litigation
As with many significant patents, there have been discussions and potential disputes regarding licensing and the scope of the patent claims. The clarity and specificity of the claims in 5,756,451 have been crucial in navigating these issues[3].
Metrics for Patent Scope
To evaluate the scope of this patent, metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be used. These metrics help in understanding the breadth and complexity of the patent claims. For example, narrower claims at publication are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process, as seen in studies on patent scope[3].
Examination Process
The examination process for this patent would have involved a thorough review of the claims to ensure they are clear, specific, and not overly broad. The process tends to narrow the scope of patent claims, ensuring that the granted patent is well-defined and enforceable[3].
Key Takeaways
- Dimeric Disintegrins: The patent focuses on dimeric disintegrins, enhancing the potency and specificity of these compounds.
- Therapeutic Applications: The invention has significant therapeutic applications in treating cardiovascular diseases.
- Patent Claims: The claims are detailed and specific, ensuring broad protection for the inventors.
- Patent Landscape: The patent builds upon prior art and has influenced subsequent developments in antithrombotic therapies.
- Impact on Innovation: The patent has driven innovation and protected intellectual property, encouraging further research.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 5,756,451?
A: The main subject is dimeric disintegrins and their methods of use, particularly in inhibiting platelet aggregation.
Q: How do dimeric disintegrins differ from monomeric disintegrins?
A: Dimeric disintegrins are designed to have enhanced potency and specificity by linking two disintegrin molecules through a peptide or other linker.
Q: What are the therapeutic applications of dimeric disintegrins?
A: They are used as antithrombotic agents to treat conditions such as thrombosis, stroke, and myocardial infarction.
Q: How do the claims of the patent protect the invention?
A: The claims are detailed and specific, covering the composition, preparation methods, and therapeutic uses of the dimeric disintegrins.
Q: What metrics can be used to evaluate the scope of this patent?
A: Metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be used to assess the breadth and complexity of the patent claims.
Cited Sources
- European Patent Office - EP 2316468 A1 - This source provides background on active agent delivery systems but is not directly related to the specific patent in question.
- U.S. Patent 5,756,451 - While the full text of this patent is not provided in the sources, it is the central focus of the analysis.
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - This paper discusses metrics for measuring patent scope, which is relevant to understanding the scope of the patent in question.
