Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 7,144,872: N-pyrazole A2A Receptor Agonists
Introduction
United States Patent 7,144,872, titled "N-pyrazole A2A receptor agonists," is a patent that discloses specific compounds and methods for their use as A2A receptor agonists. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication and Priority Dates
The patent was published on November 28, 2006, with the application number US11/252,760. Understanding the priority dates is crucial as it helps in determining the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention[5].
Inventors and Assignees
The patent lists the inventors and assignees, which are critical for identifying the ownership and potential licensing or collaboration opportunities.
Scope of the Invention
Claim Language and Scope
The patent scope is defined by the claims, which are the legally binding descriptions of the invention. For US7144872B2, the claims focus on specific 2-adenosine N-pyrazole compounds and their use as A2A receptor agonists. The claims include:
- The chemical structure of the compounds.
- Methods for using these compounds as A2A receptor agonists.
- Specific applications, such as therapeutic uses, particularly in treating conditions related to the cardiovascular system[5].
Independent Claim Length and Count
Research suggests that the length and count of independent claims can be metrics for measuring patent scope. Narrower claims, as seen in this patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
The independent claims are the broadest claims in the patent and define the core of the invention. For US7144872B2, these claims specify the chemical structure of the N-pyrazole compounds and their use as A2A receptor agonists.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further limit the scope of the independent claims and provide additional details. These claims may include specific embodiments, such as particular substituents on the N-pyrazole ring or specific therapeutic applications.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art and Citation Data
To understand the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention, it is essential to analyze the prior art cited in the patent. Tools like the Common Citation Document (CCD) can provide a consolidated view of prior art cited by multiple patent offices, helping to identify any overlapping or similar inventions[1].
Global Patent Family
Using resources like the Global Dossier, one can identify related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the global reach and protection of the invention[1].
Industry Trends
The patent falls within the broader category of pharmaceutical and biotechnology patents. Trends in this field, such as the increasing focus on targeted therapies and the role of A2A receptor agonists in treating various diseases, are relevant. For instance, the report on "Invention: U.S. and Comparative Global Trends" highlights the importance of patents in the pharmaceutical sector and the growing number of patents in this area[4].
Technological Classification
International Patent Classification (IPC)
The patent is classified under specific IPC categories, which help in identifying its technological field. For pharmaceutical patents, classifications might include A61K (preparations for medical, dental, or toilet purposes) and C07D (heterocyclic compounds)[4].
Legal and Practical Considerations
Patent Validity and Litigation
The validity of the patent can be affected by various factors, including the breadth of the claims and the clarity of the specification. Broader claims may face challenges during litigation, especially if they are deemed overly broad or lack clarity[3].
Licensing and Collaboration
The patent's scope and claims also influence its licensing potential. Clear and specific claims can make the patent more attractive for licensing, as they provide a clear understanding of what is protected[4].
Search and Analysis Tools
Patent Public Search and Global Dossier
Tools like the Patent Public Search and Global Dossier are essential for conducting thorough searches and analyzing the patent landscape. These tools provide enhanced access to prior art and related applications, helping to ensure the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention[1].
Conclusion
United States Patent 7,144,872 is a specific example of how patent claims and scope are defined and analyzed. Understanding the claim language, prior art, and the broader patent landscape is crucial for inventors, patent attorneys, and businesses looking to navigate the complex world of intellectual property.
Key Takeaways
- Claim Language: The claims define the scope of the patent and must be clear and specific.
- Prior Art: Analyzing prior art is essential for determining novelty and non-obviousness.
- Global Patent Family: Understanding related applications filed globally helps in assessing the invention's global protection.
- Technological Classification: IPC classifications help in identifying the technological field of the patent.
- Legal Considerations: The validity and licensing potential of a patent are influenced by its claims and scope.
FAQs
Q: What is the main focus of United States Patent 7,144,872?
A: The main focus is on specific 2-adenosine N-pyrazole compounds and their use as A2A receptor agonists.
Q: How do independent claim length and count affect patent scope?
A: Narrower claims, often indicated by shorter independent claim lengths and fewer independent claims, are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Q: What tools can be used to analyze the global patent family of a patent?
A: Tools like the Global Dossier and Patent Public Search can be used to identify related applications filed at participating IP Offices[1].
Q: Why is technological classification important for patents?
A: Technological classification helps in identifying the specific field of the invention and understanding industry trends and competitors[4].
Q: How does the breadth of claims affect patent validity and litigation?
A: Broader claims may face challenges during litigation if they are deemed overly broad or lack clarity, potentially affecting the patent's validity[3].
