Patent landscape, scope, and claims: |
Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 5,843,901
Introduction
United States Patent 5,843,901, titled "LHRH antagonist peptides," was granted to Praecis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and pertains to novel peptides, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of use related to Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone (LHRH) antagonists. Here, we will delve into the details of the patent, its claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Background on LHRH Antagonists
LHRH antagonists are crucial in medical treatments, particularly in the management of conditions such as prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty. These peptides work by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone, thereby reducing the production of sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
Patent Overview
- Publication Number: US5843901A
- Grant Date: The patent was granted, but the specific date is not provided in the sources. However, it is listed as expired, indicating it has completed its lifetime[4].
Claims Analysis
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention.
Independent Claims
- The patent claims novel LHRH antagonist peptides, which are defined by their specific amino acid sequences. These peptides are designed to have improved potency and stability compared to existing LHRH antagonists.
- Pharmaceutical compositions containing these peptides are also claimed, including formulations suitable for various administration routes such as injection or oral delivery.
Dependent Claims
- Dependent claims further specify the characteristics of the peptides, such as their molecular weight, half-life, and specific amino acid substitutions that enhance their efficacy.
- Methods of use for these peptides are also claimed, including therapeutic applications in treating conditions like prostate cancer, endometriosis, and other hormone-sensitive disorders.
Patent Scope
The scope of the patent is defined by the claims and the detailed description provided in the specification.
Novelty and Non-Obviousness
- The patent emphasizes the novelty of the LHRH antagonist peptides by highlighting their unique amino acid sequences and the improvements they offer over prior art.
- The specification and claims work together to demonstrate that these peptides are not obvious variations of existing compounds, thus satisfying the non-obviousness requirement under U.S. patent law.
Enablement and Written Description
- The patent provides a detailed description of how to make and use the LHRH antagonist peptides, ensuring that the invention is enabled and that the written description requirement is met.
- Examples and experimental data are included to support the claims and demonstrate the efficacy of the peptides.
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape for LHRH antagonists is complex and involves numerous patents and patent applications.
Prior Art
- The patent cites prior art related to LHRH antagonists, including earlier peptides and methods of use. It differentiates itself by highlighting the unique characteristics and improvements of the claimed peptides[4].
Competing Patents
- Other companies and researchers have also developed LHRH antagonists, leading to a crowded patent landscape. This competition drives innovation and ensures that new developments are significantly different from existing technologies.
Legal Status and Expiration
- The patent has expired, which means that the exclusive rights granted to the patent holder have lapsed, and the invention is now in the public domain. This allows others to use, make, and sell the LHRH antagonist peptides without infringing on the original patent.
Impact on Medical Treatments
- The LHRH antagonist peptides described in this patent have contributed significantly to medical treatments. By providing more effective and stable alternatives, these peptides have improved patient outcomes in various hormone-sensitive conditions.
Current Research and Development
- Despite the expiration of this patent, research and development in the field of LHRH antagonists continue. New patents and patent applications are being filed, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve these therapies and expand their applications.
Key Takeaways
- Novel Peptides: The patent introduces novel LHRH antagonist peptides with improved efficacy and stability.
- Pharmaceutical Compositions: It claims pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use for these peptides.
- Expired Status: The patent has expired, making the invention public domain.
- Impact on Treatments: The peptides have significantly improved medical treatments for hormone-sensitive conditions.
- Ongoing Research: Research in this area continues, with new patents and applications being filed.
FAQs
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What is the main subject of United States Patent 5,843,901?
- The main subject is novel LHRH antagonist peptides, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods of use.
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Why are LHRH antagonists important in medical treatments?
- LHRH antagonists are crucial in managing conditions such as prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty by inhibiting the release of luteinizing hormone.
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What is the current legal status of the patent?
- The patent has expired, placing the invention in the public domain.
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How does this patent differentiate itself from prior art?
- It differentiates itself through unique amino acid sequences and improved potency and stability compared to earlier LHRH antagonists.
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What is the impact of this patent on current research and development?
- Despite its expiration, the patent's contributions have driven ongoing research and development in the field of LHRH antagonists.
Sources
- US5843901A - LHRH antagonist peptides - Google Patents
- Federal Register, Volume 71 Issue 189 (Friday, September 29, 2006)
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO (for general context on patent claims and scope)
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