United States Patent 6,821,987: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 6,821,987, titled "Quinoline derivatives and quinazoline derivatives having azolyl group," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly for the treatment of various diseases including tumors, diabetic retinopathy, and psoriasis. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Inventors and Applicants
The patent was granted to inventors associated with various institutions, although the specific details of the inventors are not provided in the patent document itself. However, it is common for such patents to be assigned to pharmaceutical companies or research institutions[4].
Publication and Expiration Dates
The patent was published on November 2, 2004, and has since expired, as indicated by its legal status. The expiration date is crucial as it marks the end of the exclusive rights granted to the patent holder[4].
Scope of the Patent
Therapeutic Applications
The patent covers quinoline and quinazoline derivatives that are therapeutically effective for a range of diseases. These include:
- Tumors
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Chronic rheumatism
- Psoriasis
- Atherosclerosis
- Kaposi's sarcoma
These compounds are noted for their potent antitumor activity, making them valuable in oncology and other related therapeutic areas[4].
Chemical Structure
The patent describes specific chemical structures of the quinoline and quinazoline derivatives. Key features include:
- Azolyl groups
- Variations in the X, Y, and Z positions within the molecular structure
- Specific functional groups that contribute to the therapeutic efficacy of the compounds[4].
Claims of the Patent
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes both independent and dependent claims. Independent claims define the broad scope of the invention, while dependent claims narrow down the scope by adding specific limitations or features.
- Independent Claims: These claims outline the general structure and therapeutic applications of the quinoline and quinazoline derivatives.
- Dependent Claims: These claims specify particular variations of the compounds, such as different substituents or functional groups, which are covered under the broader independent claims[4].
Claim Language and Scope
The language used in the claims is critical for defining the patent's scope. Narrower claims, which specify more details about the compounds, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. Broader claims, while potentially more valuable, may face more scrutiny and challenges during the patent examination process[3].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Exclusivities
The patent landscape surrounding US 6,821,987 includes other related patents and exclusivities:
- Related Patents: Other patents, such as US 7,166,722 and US 11,504,365, cover similar or related compounds and therapeutic areas. These patents may have overlapping claims or different expiration dates, affecting the competitive landscape[2].
- Exclusivities: Exclusivity periods granted by the FDA can run concurrently with or independently of patent protection. For example, a new chemical entity exclusivity can provide additional market protection beyond the patent term[2].
Classification and Prior Art
The patent is classified under various categories within the International Patent Classification (IPC) system, including A61P for specific therapeutic activities of chemical compounds or medicinal preparations. Prior art references, such as WO 97/17329 and WO 00/43366, are mentioned to distinguish the present invention from existing knowledge in the field[4].
Impact on Innovation and Litigation
Patent Quality and Scope
The debate over patent quality and scope is relevant here. Broader patents can sometimes be criticized for being overly broad, leading to increased licensing and litigation costs. However, narrower claims, as seen in this patent, can provide clearer boundaries and reduce the likelihood of disputes[3].
Incentives for Innovation
The patent system is designed to incentivize innovation by providing exclusive rights to inventors. Patents like US 6,821,987 encourage research and development in pharmaceuticals by offering protection for novel and useful inventions. The expiration of this patent now allows other companies to develop and market similar compounds, fostering further innovation and competition[3].
Practical Implications
Generic Availability
With the expiration of the patent, generic versions of the covered compounds can now be developed and marketed. This can lead to increased competition, potentially reducing prices and improving access to these therapeutic agents[2].
Research and Development
The expiration of this patent also opens up new avenues for research and development. Other companies can build upon the existing knowledge and develop new compounds or formulations that may offer improved therapeutic outcomes or reduced side effects.
Key Takeaways
- Therapeutic Applications: The patent covers quinoline and quinazoline derivatives effective against various diseases, including tumors and psoriasis.
- Chemical Structure: Specific azolyl groups and variations in the molecular structure are key features.
- Claims: Independent and dependent claims define the scope, with narrower claims associated with higher grant probabilities.
- Patent Landscape: Related patents and exclusivities influence the competitive landscape.
- Impact on Innovation: The patent system incentivizes innovation, and the expiration of this patent opens up new research and development opportunities.
FAQs
Q: What are the primary therapeutic applications of the compounds covered by US 6,821,987?
A: The compounds are therapeutically effective for diseases such as tumors, diabetic retinopathy, chronic rheumatism, psoriasis, atherosclerosis, and Kaposi's sarcoma.
Q: What is the significance of the azolyl group in the patented compounds?
A: The azolyl group is a key feature that contributes to the potent antitumor activity of the quinoline and quinazoline derivatives.
Q: How do independent and dependent claims differ in this patent?
A: Independent claims define the broad scope of the invention, while dependent claims narrow down the scope by adding specific limitations or features.
Q: What is the current status of US 6,821,987?
A: The patent has expired, marking the end of the exclusive rights granted to the patent holder.
Q: How does the expiration of this patent affect the pharmaceutical industry?
A: The expiration allows other companies to develop and market generic versions of the covered compounds, potentially increasing competition and reducing prices.
Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. US11091440.pdf. Google Patents.
- Drugs.com. Generic Fotivda Availability. Drugs.com.
- Hoover Institution. Patent Claims and Patent Scope. Hoover Institution.
- Google Patents. US6821987B2 - Quinoline derivatives and quinazoline derivatives having azolyl group. Google Patents.
