United States Patent 6,872,728: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 6,872,728, titled "Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor antagonists and methods relating thereto," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the treatment of sex-hormone related conditions. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background
The patent, issued to a pharmaceutical company, discloses a class of compounds known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonists. These compounds are designed to treat various sex-hormone related conditions in both men and women, such as prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty[4].
Scope of the Patent
Definition and Utility
The scope of the patent is defined by the utility of the GnRH receptor antagonists. These compounds are intended to modulate the activity of GnRH receptors, which play a crucial role in regulating the reproductive system. The patent covers a wide range of applications, including the treatment of conditions that are influenced by sex hormones[4].
Claim Language
The patent claims are critical in defining the scope of protection. The claims include descriptions of the chemical structures of the antagonists, methods of synthesis, and methods of use. For instance, the patent claims specific substituted compounds and their derivatives, which are designed to bind to GnRH receptors and inhibit their activity[4].
Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
The independent claims in the patent are those that stand alone and define the invention without reference to other claims. These claims typically describe the broadest aspects of the invention, such as the chemical structure of the antagonists and their therapeutic uses. For example, Claim 1 might describe a specific compound and its use in treating a particular condition[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow down the scope of the independent claims by adding additional limitations. These claims often describe specific embodiments or variations of the invention. For instance, a dependent claim might specify a particular method of synthesizing the compound or a specific dosage form for administration[4].
Metrics for Measuring Patent Scope
Independent Claim Length and Count
Research has shown that the length and count of independent claims can be useful metrics for measuring patent scope. Patents with narrower claims, as measured by shorter independent claim length and lower independent claim count, tend to have a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. This suggests that the scope of Patent 6,872,728, if it has narrower claims, would be more focused and potentially more defensible[3].
Patent Examination Process
Narrowing of Claims
During the patent examination process, the scope of the claims can be narrowed based on feedback from patent examiners. This narrowing can result in claims that are more specific and less likely to be challenged for being overly broad. For Patent 6,872,728, any changes made during the examination process would have refined the claims to ensure they are clear, specific, and valid[3].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape for GnRH receptor antagonists includes a variety of related patents and applications. These may cover similar compounds, different methods of synthesis, or alternative therapeutic uses. For example, other patents might cover different classes of GnRH receptor antagonists or methods for treating other hormone-related conditions[1].
International Patent Offices
To fully understand the patent landscape, it is essential to search international patent databases. Resources such as the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) provide access to global patent data. This helps in identifying similar inventions filed in other countries and understanding the global protection of the invention[1].
Common Citation Document (CCD)
The Common Citation Document (CCD) is a tool that consolidates prior art citations from multiple patent offices. This can help in understanding how different patent offices have treated similar inventions and identifying potential prior art that could impact the validity of Patent 6,872,728[1].
Public Search Resources
USPTO Public Search Facility
The USPTO Public Search Facility and Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) provide valuable resources for conducting thorough patent searches. These facilities offer access to various databases and trained staff to assist in searching for prior art and related patents[1].
Global Dossier
The Global Dossier service allows users to access file histories of related applications from participating IP offices. This can be particularly useful in tracking the prosecution history of Patent 6,872,728 and its related applications globally[1].
Chemical Compounds and Structures
Detailed Chemical Descriptions
The patent includes detailed descriptions of the chemical compounds, including their structures and synthesis methods. For example, the patent lists several chemical compounds with specific structures and their corresponding CAS numbers, which are essential for identifying and synthesizing the antagonists[4].
Legal Status and Expiration
Patent Expiration
As of the current date, the legal status of Patent 6,872,728 indicates that it has expired. This means that the exclusive rights granted by the patent are no longer in effect, and the invention is now in the public domain. However, it is important to note that other related patents or continuations may still be active[4].
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Utility: The patent covers GnRH receptor antagonists for treating sex-hormone related conditions.
- Claims Analysis: Independent and dependent claims define the scope of protection, with narrower claims often resulting in a higher probability of grant.
- Patent Examination: The examination process can narrow the scope of claims to ensure clarity and validity.
- Patent Landscape: The landscape includes related patents and applications globally, which can be searched using various international databases.
- Public Search Resources: Tools like the USPTO Public Search Facility and Global Dossier are essential for thorough patent searches.
- Chemical Compounds: Detailed descriptions of chemical structures and synthesis methods are provided.
- Legal Status: The patent has expired, but related patents may still be active.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 6,872,728?
A: The main subject is GnRH receptor antagonists and their methods of use in treating sex-hormone related conditions.
Q: How can the scope of a patent be measured?
A: The scope can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count.
Q: What is the significance of the Common Citation Document (CCD)?
A: The CCD consolidates prior art citations from multiple patent offices, helping to understand how different offices have treated similar inventions.
Q: Where can I find detailed information about the chemical compounds described in the patent?
A: Detailed information about the chemical compounds, including their structures and synthesis methods, can be found in the patent document itself.
Q: Is Patent 6,872,728 still active?
A: No, the patent has expired, but related patents or continuations may still be active.
Sources
- USPTO: Search for patents - USPTO.
- DrugPatentWatch: Patent 6,872,728.
- SSRN: Patent Claims and Patent Scope.
- Google Patents: US6872728B2 - Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor antagonists and methods relating thereto.
- PubChem: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor antagonists and methods.
