United States Patent 6,878,721: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Overview of the Patent
The United States Patent 6,878,721, titled "Beta2-adrenoceptor agonists," is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the field of respiratory diseases. This patent, assigned to Novartis AG, covers a class of compounds that act as agonists for the beta-2 adrenergic receptor, which is crucial for treating conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Scope of the Patent
Chemical Structure and Compounds
The patent describes a series of chemical compounds that fit specific structural formulas. These compounds are characterized by their ability to activate the beta-2 adrenergic receptor, leading to bronchodilation and relief from respiratory symptoms. The preferred compounds include those with specific aryl groups (Ar) and substituents (R1, R2, etc.) that enhance their pharmacological activity[1].
Structural Formulas
The patent outlines several structural formulas, including formulas I, III, IV, V, XII, and XV. These formulas define the core structure of the beta2-adrenoceptor agonists, with variations in the aryl groups and substituents that can be modified to optimize the compounds' efficacy and safety[1].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of protection for the invented compounds. These claims cover:
- The chemical compounds themselves in free or salt form.
- Pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds.
- Methods of treating respiratory diseases using these compounds[1].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the preferred embodiments of the invention, including:
- Specific aryl groups and substituents.
- Particular alkyl groups and their substitutions.
- Preferred dosages and administration routes[1].
Patent Landscape
Expiration Date
The patent US6878721B1 is set to expire, although the exact expiration date is not specified in the provided sources. Generally, patents in the United States have a term of 20 years from the earliest filing date, but this can be adjusted based on various factors such as patent term adjustments and terminal disclaimers[3].
Related Patents
The patent landscape for beta2-adrenoceptor agonists includes several related patents that cover similar or complementary technologies. For instance, other patents by Novartis AG and other pharmaceutical companies may cover different aspects of beta2-adrenoceptor agonists, such as new formulations, delivery methods, or additional therapeutic uses[5].
Impact on the Pharmaceutical Industry
Market Significance
The expiration of this patent could have significant implications for the pharmaceutical market. Generic versions of the drug could be developed, potentially reducing costs and increasing accessibility for patients. This could also lead to increased competition among pharmaceutical companies, driving innovation in the development of new respiratory treatments[2].
Competitive Landscape
Companies like Novartis AG, Pfizer, and others that hold patents in the respiratory drug space will need to strategize around the expiration of key patents. This might involve developing new drugs, acquiring or licensing existing patents, or focusing on other therapeutic areas to maintain market share[2].
Patent Analytics and Claim Coverage
Claim Coverage Matrix
To understand the full scope of protection and identify gaps or opportunities, a Claim Coverage Matrix can be used. This tool categorizes patents by claims and scope concepts, helping to filter, search, and analyze large numbers of patent claims. For US6878721B1, such an analysis would highlight which claims are actively protecting the intellectual property and where there might be opportunities for future development or licensing[3].
Interactive Claim Charts
Interactive claim charts generated by tools like ClaimScape® can facilitate a quick and accurate review of patent coverage with technical experts. These charts help in determining whether a particular scope concept is applicable to a target product or method, identifying gaps in current coverage, and highlighting future design opportunities[3].
Conclusion
The United States Patent 6,878,721 is a critical patent in the field of respiratory medicine, covering a class of beta2-adrenoceptor agonists. Understanding its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is essential for pharmaceutical companies to navigate the complexities of intellectual property, competition, and innovation.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical Structure: The patent defines specific structural formulas for beta2-adrenoceptor agonists.
- Claims: The patent includes independent and dependent claims covering compounds, pharmaceutical compositions, and treatment methods.
- Expiration: The patent's expiration date is crucial for understanding market dynamics and competition.
- Impact: Expiration could lead to generic versions, increased competition, and innovation in respiratory treatments.
- Patent Analytics: Tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and interactive claim charts are vital for analyzing and managing patent claims.
FAQs
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What is the main subject of United States Patent 6,878,721?
- The main subject is beta2-adrenoceptor agonists, which are compounds used to treat respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD.
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What are the key structural elements of the compounds described in the patent?
- The compounds are characterized by specific aryl groups (Ar) and substituents (R1, R2, etc.) that enhance their pharmacological activity.
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How does the patent's expiration affect the pharmaceutical market?
- The expiration could lead to the development of generic versions, reducing costs and increasing accessibility, and may drive competition and innovation.
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What tools can be used to analyze the patent claims and coverage?
- Tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and interactive claim charts generated by ClaimScape® can be used to analyze and manage patent claims.
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Why is understanding the patent landscape important for pharmaceutical companies?
- It helps companies navigate intellectual property, competition, and innovation, ensuring they maintain market share and develop new treatments.
Sources
- US6878721B1 - Beta2-adrenoceptor agonists - Google Patents
- List - 65 Drug Patents Expiring in 2025 - GreyB
- Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law - SLWIP
- WO2019074870A1 - Broad Institute
- US8796307.pdf - googleapis.com
