United States Patent 6,051,698: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 6,051,698, titled "Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Nucleic Acid Ligand Complexes," is a significant patent in the field of biomedical research and pharmaceuticals. This patent, issued to inventors involved in the development of therapeutic agents, outlines a method for preparing complexes comprising VEGF nucleic acid ligands and non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compounds. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background
VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) is a protein that plays a crucial role in angiogenesis, the process of forming new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. This process is vital in various physiological and pathological conditions, including cancer, wound healing, and cardiovascular diseases. The invention described in US Patent 6,051,698 focuses on creating complexes that can modulate VEGF activity, which has potential therapeutic applications[4][5].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of US Patent 6,051,698 is defined by its claims, which describe the specific methods and compositions of the invention. Here are the key aspects:
Method of Preparation
The patent describes a method for preparing complexes comprising a VEGF nucleic acid ligand and a non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound. This method involves several steps, including the synthesis of the nucleic acid ligand and its conjugation with the high molecular weight compound, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG)[4].
Composition of the Complex
The complex consists of a VEGF nucleic acid ligand, which can be an RNA or DNA molecule, and a non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound. The use of PEG as the high molecular weight compound is highlighted, as it enhances the stability and solubility of the complex[4].
Therapeutic Applications
The patent suggests that these complexes can be used for therapeutic purposes, particularly in modulating angiogenesis. This could be beneficial in treating conditions such as cancer, where angiogenesis is a key factor in tumor growth and metastasis[4].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of US Patent 6,051,698 are detailed and specific, ensuring that the invention is well-defined and distinguishable from prior art.
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the method of preparing the complex, including the steps of synthesizing the nucleic acid ligand and conjugating it with the high molecular weight compound.
- Claim 2 outlines the composition of the complex, specifying the types of nucleic acid ligands and high molecular weight compounds that can be used[4].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further specify the details of the method and composition, such as the use of specific reagents, reaction conditions, and the characteristics of the resulting complex[4].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US Patent 6,051,698 involves several key aspects:
Prior Art
The patent cites several prior art references related to VEGF, nucleic acid ligands, and the use of high molecular weight compounds in therapeutic applications. These references highlight the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention[4].
Related Patents
There are several other patents related to VEGF and its therapeutic applications. For example, patents related to VEGF inhibitors or VEGF-targeting therapies are part of the broader landscape. These patents often describe different approaches to modulating VEGF activity, such as using antibodies or small molecules[5].
International Patent Filings
The invention described in US Patent 6,051,698 may also have international patent filings. Searching databases such as the European Patent Office (EPO) or the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) can reveal if similar patents have been filed in other jurisdictions[1].
Search Tools and Resources
To conduct a thorough analysis of the patent landscape, several search tools and resources can be utilized:
USPTO Patent Public Search
This tool provides enhanced access to prior art and allows users to search for patents and published patent applications. It is particularly useful for identifying related patents and understanding the scope of existing inventions[1].
Global Dossier
This service allows users to view the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, which can be crucial in understanding the international patent landscape[1].
Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs)
These centers offer local search resources and training in patent search techniques, which can be invaluable for conducting a comprehensive search[1].
Legal Status and Expiration
As of the current date, US Patent 6,051,698 has expired. This means that the exclusive rights granted by the patent are no longer in effect, and the invention described can be freely used by others without infringing on the patent[4].
Key Takeaways
- Method and Composition: The patent describes a specific method for preparing complexes of VEGF nucleic acid ligands and non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compounds.
- Therapeutic Applications: The invention has potential therapeutic applications, particularly in modulating angiogenesis.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape involving other patents related to VEGF and its therapeutic applications.
- Search Tools: Utilizing tools like the USPTO Patent Public Search and Global Dossier can help in understanding the scope and claims of the patent.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of US Patent 6,051,698?
A: The main subject is the method for preparing complexes comprising VEGF nucleic acid ligands and non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compounds.
Q: What are the potential therapeutic applications of this invention?
A: The invention has potential therapeutic applications in modulating angiogenesis, particularly in treating conditions such as cancer.
Q: Is US Patent 6,051,698 still in effect?
A: No, the patent has expired, and the exclusive rights granted by it are no longer in effect.
Q: How can one search for related patents?
A: One can use tools such as the USPTO Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) to search for related patents.
Q: What are some of the key components of the complex described in the patent?
A: The complex consists of a VEGF nucleic acid ligand and a non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG).
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) | USAGov. Retrieved from https://www.usa.gov/agencies/u-s-patent-and-trademark-office
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO. Retrieved from https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- US6051698A - Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) nucleic acid ligand complexes - Google Patents. Retrieved from https://patents.google.com/patent/US6051698A/en
- Drugs covered by patent 6,051,698. Claims, international patent .... Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/patent/6051698
