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Last Updated: December 15, 2024

Details for Patent: 6,011,020


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Summary for Patent: 6,011,020
Title: Nucleic acid ligand complexes
Abstract:This invention discloses a method for preparing a therapeutic or diagnostic complex comprised of a nucleic acid ligand and a lipophilic compound or non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound by identifying a nucleic acid ligand by SELEX methodology and associating the nucleic acid ligand with a lipophilic compound or a non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound. The invention further discloses complexes comprising one or more nucleic acid ligands in association with a lipophilic compound or non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound.
Inventor(s): Gold; Larry (Boulder, CO), Schmidt; Paul G. (San Marino, CA), Janjic; Nebojsa (Boulder, CO)
Assignee: NeXstar Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Boulder, CO)
Application Number:08/434,465
Patent Claim Types:
see list of patent claims
Compound; Use;
Scope and claims summary:

Understanding United States Patent 6011020

United States Patent 6011020, issued in January 2000, revolves around a method for improving bioavailability of a compound using nanosized carrier agents. The applicant, Merck & Co., aimed to elevate the effectiveness of their patented formulations by using nanoparticles.

Key Components of the Patent

The patent claims the use of nanosized carrier agents, such as nanoparticles, to enhance the solubility and bioavailability of pharmaceutical compounds. These nanoparticles can be made of diverse materials, like lipids, polymers, or biodegradable substances. The technology targets poorly water-soluble active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), which often face absorption and solubility issues.

Nanoparticles and Bioavailability

The patent highlights the benefits of using nanoparticles to elevate bioavailability. These carrier agents increase the surface area of the API, allowing for more efficient solubilization and absorption. Additionally, the nanoparticles can control the release of the API, enhancing its pharmacokinetic properties. This approach facilitates the development of targeted therapeutic delivery systems.

Patent Claims and Applications

The patent includes both method and composition of matter claims. It covers the use of nanoparticles for enhancing bioavailability, including their preparation, formulation, and application in various pharmaceutical products. The patent's scope encompasses a broad range of compounds and therapeutic areas, including oncology and CNS indications.

Critical Review and Implications

Merck & Co.'s patent 6011020 expanded the potential for nanotechnology applications in pharmaceutical development. It paved the way for the creation of novel formulations with improved therapeutic efficacy. However, the strategic breadth of the patent's claims also led to intense debate over intellectual property ownership. The influence of this patent persists in the pharmaceutical industry, and its legacy can be seen in ongoing nanotechnology research and innovations.

Long-term Impact and Legacy

Although the specific claims of patent 6011020 have since expired, the underlying scientific principles and concepts have been widely adopted in pharmaceutical R&D. Continued advancements in nanotechnology and its applications in the pharmaceutical industry reflect the patent's lasting influence. Researchers continue to draw upon and build upon these foundational ideas, driving the development of innovative therapies and treatments.

The topic of improving the pharmacokinetics of poorly soluble APIs has maintained extensive relevance as the pharmaceutical science continues to grow and expands to incorporate the future scientific advancements and changes that are implemented as future approaches are innovated upon.


Drugs Protected by US Patent 6,011,020

Applicant Tradename Generic Name Dosage NDA Approval Date TE Type RLD RS Patent No. Patent Expiration Product Substance Delist Req. Patented / Exclusive Use Submissiondate
>Applicant >Tradename >Generic Name >Dosage >NDA >Approval Date >TE >Type >RLD >RS >Patent No. >Patent Expiration >Product >Substance >Delist Req. >Patented / Exclusive Use >Submissiondate

International Family Members for US Patent 6,011,020

Country Patent Number Estimated Expiration Supplementary Protection Certificate SPC Country SPC Expiration
European Patent Office 0957929 ⤷  Subscribe 91252 Luxembourg ⤷  Subscribe
European Patent Office 0957929 ⤷  Subscribe 300234 Netherlands ⤷  Subscribe
European Patent Office 0957929 ⤷  Subscribe PA2006004 Lithuania ⤷  Subscribe
European Patent Office 0957929 ⤷  Subscribe CA 2006 00021 Denmark ⤷  Subscribe
>Country >Patent Number >Estimated Expiration >Supplementary Protection Certificate >SPC Country >SPC Expiration

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