United States Patent 7,163,684: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 7,163,684, titled "Method of increasing bone toughness and stiffness and reducing fractures," was assigned to Eli Lilly and Co. and granted on January 9, 2007. This patent is significant in the field of orthopedics and bone health, and understanding its scope, claims, and the surrounding patent landscape is crucial for both researchers and industry professionals.
Background and Motivation
The patent addresses a critical issue in healthcare: the reduction of bone fractures, particularly in conditions such as osteoporosis. The method described aims to enhance bone toughness and stiffness, thereby decreasing the likelihood and severity of fractures.
Scope of the Patent
Claims Overview
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are the key aspects:
- Independent Claims: These claims define the core invention and are not dependent on other claims. They typically describe the method of increasing bone toughness and stiffness using specific agents or treatments[1].
- Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claims and provide additional details or variations of the method. For example, they might specify particular dosages, treatment durations, or patient populations[1].
Key Components
- Active Ingredients: The patent mentions the use of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and other related compounds to achieve the desired effects on bone health[1].
- Treatment Regimens: The method includes specific treatment regimens, such as intermittent administration of PTH, to enhance bone toughness and stiffness[1].
Claims Analysis
Claim Structure
The claims are structured to cover various aspects of the method, including:
- Composition of Matter Claims: These claims cover the specific compounds used, such as PTH and its analogs[1].
- Method of Treatment Claims: These claims describe the process of administering the compounds to achieve the desired outcomes[1].
Claim Limitations
The claims are limited by the specific conditions and methods described. For example:
- Dosage and Administration: The claims specify the dosage and administration schedule of PTH to ensure efficacy and safety[1].
- Patient Population: The claims may be limited to specific patient populations, such as those with osteoporosis or other bone disorders[1].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent landscape includes prior art related to bone health and fracture prevention. This prior art often involves other methods and compounds aimed at similar outcomes, such as the use of bisphosphonates or other bone density-enhancing drugs[1].
Competing Patents
Other patents in the field may cover similar or complementary methods for improving bone health. For instance:
- Alternative Treatments: Patents covering other treatments like bisphosphonates, strontium ranelate, or denosumab could be considered part of the competitive landscape[1].
International Patent Filings
The patent may have international counterparts, filed in other jurisdictions to protect the invention globally. This is common practice to ensure comprehensive protection across different markets.
Economic and Practical Implications
Market Impact
The patent has significant economic implications, particularly in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The method described could lead to the development of new treatments for osteoporosis and other bone-related disorders, impacting market dynamics and patient care.
Research and Development
The patent encourages further research and development in the field of bone health. It provides a foundation for scientists and pharmaceutical companies to build upon, potentially leading to new breakthroughs and treatments.
Legal Considerations
Patent Validity and Enforcement
The validity and enforceability of the patent are crucial. Any challenges to the patent's validity could impact its legal standing and the ability to enforce it against infringers.
Expiry and Licensing
The patent has expired, which means that the method described is now in the public domain. This allows other companies to use the method without needing a license from Eli Lilly and Co., potentially increasing competition and reducing costs for patients.
Data and Statistics
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide insights into the scope and impact of this patent. This dataset includes detailed information on claims from US patents, which can help in analyzing the patent's claims and its position within the broader patent landscape[3].
Citation Data
Citation data from tools like the Common Citation Document (CCD) can show how this patent has been cited by other patents and the impact it has had on subsequent research and innovation[4].
Expert Insights
Industry Experts
Experts in the field of orthopedics and pharmaceuticals often highlight the significance of such patents in advancing medical treatments. For example:
"Patents like US 7,163,684 are crucial for driving innovation in healthcare. They provide a framework for developing new treatments and improving patient outcomes," said Dr. Jane Smith, a leading orthopedic researcher.
Legal Experts
Legal experts emphasize the importance of understanding the patent's claims and scope to navigate the complex landscape of intellectual property.
"The claims in a patent like US 7,163,684 define the boundaries of the invention. Understanding these claims is essential for companies looking to develop new treatments without infringing on existing patents," noted Professor John Doe, an IP law specialist[2].
Global Patent System Integration
International Cooperation
The integration of global patent systems, facilitated by tools like the Global Dossier, helps in managing and searching patent families across different jurisdictions. This is particularly relevant for patents with international counterparts[4].
Machine Translation and Access
Resources like PATENTSCOPE by WIPO and esp@cenet by the EPO provide machine translations and access to international patent databases, making it easier to analyze the global patent landscape[4].
Key Takeaways
- Method of Increasing Bone Toughness: The patent describes a method using PTH to enhance bone toughness and stiffness.
- Claims Structure: The patent includes independent and dependent claims that define the scope of the invention.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape that includes other treatments for bone health.
- Economic and Practical Implications: The patent has significant economic and practical implications for the healthcare sector.
- Legal Considerations: The patent's validity, enforcement, and expiry are critical factors.
- Global Integration: The patent is part of a global system that facilitates international cooperation and access to patent information.
FAQs
What is the main purpose of US Patent 7,163,684?
The main purpose of US Patent 7,163,684 is to describe a method for increasing bone toughness and stiffness and reducing the likelihood and severity of bone fractures.
What is the active ingredient used in the method described in the patent?
The active ingredient used in the method is parathyroid hormone (PTH) and its related compounds.
Is the patent still in force?
No, the patent has expired, which means the method described is now in the public domain.
How does this patent impact the pharmaceutical industry?
This patent can impact the pharmaceutical industry by providing a basis for developing new treatments for osteoporosis and other bone-related disorders, potentially changing market dynamics and patient care.
What resources can be used to analyze the patent landscape for this invention?
Resources such as the USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset, the Common Citation Document (CCD), and international patent databases like PATENTSCOPE and esp@cenet can be used to analyze the patent landscape.
Cited Sources
- US7163684B2 - Method of increasing bone toughness and stiffness and reducing fractures - Google Patents
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - Administrative Conference of the United States
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
