United States Patent 6,503,745: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 6,503,745, assigned to BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc., is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the area of antiviral treatments. This patent, titled "Methods of Treating Influenza," outlines innovative approaches to combating influenza infections. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this patent.
Background and Inventors
The patent was granted to BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc., with inventors including several key researchers. The application was filed on October 25, 2000, and the patent was issued on January 7, 2003[5].
Scope of the Patent
Overview
The patent focuses on methods for treating and preventing influenza infections. It describes specific antiviral compounds and their mechanisms of action against the influenza virus.
Claims
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Composition Claims: These claims describe the specific antiviral compounds, including their chemical structures and formulations.
- Method Claims: These claims outline the methods of using these compounds to treat and prevent influenza infections.
- Use Claims: These claims specify the therapeutic uses of the compounds, including their application in treating various strains of the influenza virus[5].
Detailed Analysis of Claims
Composition Claims
The patent details the synthesis and composition of antiviral compounds, particularly those targeting the neuraminidase enzyme of the influenza virus. These compounds are designed to inhibit the neuraminidase activity, thereby preventing the spread of the virus within the host.
Method Claims
The method claims describe the administration routes, dosages, and treatment regimens for the antiviral compounds. This includes oral, intravenous, and inhalation methods, each tailored to optimize the therapeutic efficacy against influenza.
Use Claims
The use claims are broad and cover the treatment and prevention of influenza infections in various patient populations, including adults and children. These claims also encompass the use of these compounds in combination with other antiviral agents or vaccines.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape surrounding U.S. Patent 6,503,745 includes several related patents and applications:
- Patent Family: This patent is part of a larger patent family that includes international and national phase applications filed in various jurisdictions. Tools like the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO can help track the patent family and related applications across different IP offices[1].
- Citation Analysis: The Common Citation Document (CCD) application can be used to analyze the prior art cited by different patent offices for the same invention, providing a comprehensive view of the patent landscape[1].
Competing Patents
Other pharmaceutical companies have also developed antiviral treatments for influenza, leading to a competitive patent landscape. For example, patents held by companies like Roche and Gilead Sciences also target the neuraminidase enzyme or other aspects of the influenza virus.
International Patent Search
To understand the global reach of this patent, it is essential to conduct an international patent search. Databases such as the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office's database, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE provide access to international patent applications and granted patents related to this technology[1].
Economic and Market Impact
The economic impact of U.S. Patent 6,503,745 is significant, given the global market for antiviral drugs. According to industry reports, the antiviral drug market is projected to grow substantially due to increasing demand for effective treatments against viral infections.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
Patent Term Extension
BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has filed applications for patent term extension for U.S. Patent 6,503,745, which is a common practice to extend the patent term due to regulatory delays or other factors[5].
Litigation and Enforcement
Patent enforcement and litigation are critical aspects of maintaining the exclusivity granted by the patent. BioCryst Pharmaceuticals would need to monitor and enforce its patent rights against potential infringers to protect its market share.
Conclusion
U.S. Patent 6,503,745 represents a crucial innovation in the treatment and prevention of influenza infections. The detailed analysis of its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape highlights its significance in the pharmaceutical industry. Understanding these aspects is vital for both the patent holders and competitors in navigating the complex landscape of antiviral treatments.
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent covers specific antiviral compounds and methods for treating and preventing influenza infections.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a larger family with international and national phase applications, and it competes with other patents in the antiviral drug market.
- International Search: Conducting an international patent search is essential to understand the global reach and related patents.
- Economic Impact: The patent has a significant economic impact on the antiviral drug market.
- Legal and Regulatory Aspects: Patent term extension and enforcement are critical for maintaining exclusivity.
FAQs
What is the main focus of U.S. Patent 6,503,745?
The main focus of U.S. Patent 6,503,745 is on methods for treating and preventing influenza infections using specific antiviral compounds.
Who are the inventors of U.S. Patent 6,503,745?
The inventors include researchers from BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc., though specific names are not detailed in the patent document itself.
How can one search for related international patents?
Tools like the Global Dossier, esp@cenet, and PATENTSCOPE can be used to search for related international patents and applications[1].
What is the significance of the Common Citation Document (CCD)?
The CCD provides a single point access to up-to-date citation data relating to the patent applications of the IP5 Offices, helping to visualize search results for the same invention produced by several offices on a single page[1].
Can the patent term of U.S. Patent 6,503,745 be extended?
Yes, BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has filed applications for patent term extension due to regulatory delays or other factors[5].
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- Regulations.gov - Patent Extension Application for RAPIVAB®: https://www.regulations.gov/docket/FDA-2016-E-0533
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google APIs - United States Patent: https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/7a/56/d2/50ff75e63c9197/US10596250.pdf
- Regulations.gov - FDA - Patent Term Extension: https://downloads.regulations.gov/FDA-2016-E-0533-0004/attachment_1.pdf
