United States Patent 6,034,239: A Detailed Analysis
Overview of the Patent
United States Patent 6,034,239, titled "Tricyclic compounds, their production and use," pertains to a class of tricyclic compounds that have significant applications in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly as melatonin agonists.
Scope of the Patent
The patent focuses on tricyclic compounds characterized by specific structural elements:
- Ring A: A 5- to 7-membered oxygen-containing heterocyclic ring, which may be optionally substituted with one or two C1-6 alkyl groups[1].
- Ring B: An optionally substituted benzene ring, which can have various substituents such as halogens, nitro, cyano, hydroxy, and others[1].
- Linking Groups: The compounds include linking groups such as --CR3R4(CH2)pNR5COR6, where R3, R4, and R5 are hydrogen or C1-6 alkyl groups, and R6 is a C1-6 alkyl or C3-7 cycloalkyl group[1].
Claims of the Patent
The patent claims cover the following:
- Compounds: The specific tricyclic compounds with the defined structural elements, including their salts and solvates[1].
- Production Methods: Processes for synthesizing these compounds, including various reaction steps and conditions[1].
- Use: The application of these compounds as melatonin agonists, which are useful in pharmaceutical preparations for treating conditions related to melatonin regulation[1].
Patent Landscape Analysis
Defining Scope and Keywords
To analyze the patent landscape around US 6,034,239, one must define the scope and relevant keywords. Key terms include "tricyclic compounds," "melatonin agonists," "heterocyclic rings," and "pharmaceutical applications"[3].
Searching and Organizing Patents
Using patent databases such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, one can retrieve relevant patents based on these keywords. Patents can be organized by filing date, assignee, and technology subcategories to identify trends and patterns[2][3].
Identifying Trends and Key Players
The analysis reveals that the patent is part of a broader trend in the development of melatonin agonists. Key players in this field include pharmaceutical companies and research institutions actively involved in neuropharmacology and sleep disorder treatments.
Analyzing Citations and Evolution
By studying the citations and references within the patent, it is clear that US 6,034,239 builds upon earlier research in heterocyclic chemistry and melatonin receptor binding. The patent's impact can be gauged by its citations in subsequent patents and scientific literature, indicating its influence on the development of similar compounds[3].
Generating Insights for Decisions
The analysis provides insights into the competitive landscape and potential legal vulnerabilities. For instance, understanding the expiration dates of related patents (US 6,034,239 has expired) and the entry of generic versions can inform strategic decisions regarding product development and market entry[4].
Key Players and Competitors
The patent landscape analysis identifies several key players:
- Pharmaceutical Companies: Companies like those involved in the development of melatonin agonists and other sleep disorder treatments.
- Research Institutions: Universities and research centers focused on neuropharmacology and related fields.
Technological Trends
The analysis highlights several technological trends:
- Advancements in Heterocyclic Chemistry: Continuous innovation in the synthesis and application of heterocyclic compounds.
- Melatonin Agonists: Growing interest in melatonin agonists for treating sleep disorders and other conditions related to melatonin regulation.
Insights for Strategic Decisions
The patent landscape analysis offers several actionable insights:
- Competitive Positioning: Understanding the competitive landscape helps in positioning new products or innovations effectively.
- Legal Considerations: Knowing the patent expiration dates and the presence of generic versions can guide decisions on product development and market strategy.
- Technological Advancements: Identifying trends in heterocyclic chemistry and melatonin agonists can inform R&D strategies.
Expiration and Generic Entry
The patent US 6,034,239 has expired, which means that the compounds and methods described are now in the public domain. This has facilitated the entry of generic versions of melatonin agonists into the market, affecting the competitive landscape[4].
"A patent landscape analysis offers insights into ongoing innovations by revealing information about patent filings within a specific technological domain, offering a present picture and a prediction about technological trends, key players, and new and exciting innovations."[3]
Key Takeaways
- Structural Elements: The patent covers tricyclic compounds with specific heterocyclic and benzene rings.
- Pharmaceutical Use: These compounds are used as melatonin agonists.
- Expired Patent: The patent has expired, allowing for generic entry.
- Competitive Landscape: The analysis helps in understanding key players and technological trends.
- Strategic Insights: The analysis provides actionable insights for R&D and market strategies.
FAQs
What are the key structural elements of the compounds described in US 6,034,239?
The compounds include a 5- to 7-membered oxygen-containing heterocyclic ring (Ring A) and an optionally substituted benzene ring (Ring B), linked by specific groups.
What is the primary use of the compounds described in this patent?
The compounds are used as melatonin agonists in pharmaceutical preparations.
Has the patent US 6,034,239 expired?
Yes, the patent has expired, which means the described compounds and methods are now in the public domain.
How does a patent landscape analysis help in strategic decision-making?
A patent landscape analysis provides insights into technological trends, key players, and competitive positioning, guiding R&D and market strategies.
What databases can be used for conducting a patent landscape analysis?
Databases such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, European Patent Office's esp@cenet, and World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE can be used for this analysis[2][3].
Sources
- US6034239A - Tricyclic compounds, their production and use - Google Patents
- Search for patents - USPTO
- How to Do Patent Landscape Analysis - Goldstein Patent Law
- Drugs covered by patent 6,034,239 - Drug Patent Watch
