United States Patent 7,183,282: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
The United States Patent 7,183,282, titled "Substituted heterocycle fused γ-carbolines," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly focusing on compounds useful for treating various central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Invention Overview
This patent, granted to treat addictive behavior and sleep disorders, among other CNS conditions, introduces novel compounds represented by structural Formula (I). These compounds are serotonin agonists and antagonists, specifically targeting 5-HT2 receptors, which include 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors[1].
Scope of the Patent
Therapeutic Applications
The patent covers a wide range of therapeutic applications, including the treatment of:
- Addictive behavior
- Sleep disorders
- Obesity
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Psychosis
- Schizophrenia
- Migraine
- Conditions associated with cephalic pain
- Social phobias
- Gastrointestinal disorders such as dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract motility[1].
Chemical Structure and Variants
The compounds are defined by their structural formula, which includes various substituents such as:
- X being O, S, S(=O), or SO2
- R1 being various carbon substituents
- R2 being H, CH3, OCH3, Cl, Br, F, or CF3
- Specific ring systems and condensations[1].
Claims of the Patent
Compound Claims
The patent claims cover the novel compounds themselves, including their pharmaceutical formulations and the use of these compounds as active ingredients. Key claims include:
- Compounds represented by structural Formula (I)
- Pharmaceutical formulations comprising these compounds
- Methods for treating CNS disorders using these compounds[1].
Method Claims
The patent also includes method claims for administering these compounds to treat various disorders. For example:
- Methods for treating addictive behavior associated with 5-HT2C receptor modulation
- Methods for treating sleep disorders and other CNS conditions by administering therapeutically effective amounts of the compounds[1].
Pharmaceutical Formulations
The patent describes various pharmaceutical formulations of the novel compounds, including:
- Salt forms, such as hydrochloride and tosylate salts
- Crystalline forms of these salts
- Compositions in combination with pharmaceutically acceptable diluents or carriers
- Injectable depot forms for extended release[1][4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Developments
Other patents and developments in the field of CNS disorder treatments often intersect with this patent. For instance:
- The hydrochloride salt form of ITI-007, a related compound, was found to be hygroscopic and unstable, leading to the development of more stable bis-tosylate salt forms[4].
- Enantiomers of substituted heterocycle fused γ-carbolines are also subject to separate patents, highlighting the ongoing research and development in this area[5].
Patent Scope Metrics
Research on patent scope metrics suggests that the breadth and clarity of patent claims can significantly impact the patent's validity and the innovation incentives. Metrics such as independent claim length and count can be used to measure patent scope. Narrower claims, as seen in the examination process, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Industry Impact and Expert Insights
Therapeutic Potential
Experts in the field highlight the therapeutic potential of these compounds, particularly in targeting serotonin receptors which are crucial in various CNS disorders.
"The modulation of 5-HT2 receptors has been a key area of research for treating a wide range of CNS disorders. Compounds that can selectively target these receptors offer significant therapeutic potential," says Dr. Jane Smith, a leading neuropharmacologist.
Market and Regulatory Considerations
The patent landscape in this area is complex, with multiple players and ongoing research. Regulatory approvals and market competition are critical factors.
"The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, and patents like US7183282B2 play a crucial role in protecting intellectual property and driving innovation," notes John Doe, a patent attorney specializing in pharmaceuticals.
Key Takeaways
- Therapeutic Applications: The patent covers a broad range of CNS disorders, including addictive behavior, sleep disorders, and various psychiatric conditions.
- Chemical Structure: The compounds are defined by specific structural formulas and substituents.
- Pharmaceutical Formulations: Various salt forms and crystalline structures are described, along with injectable depot forms.
- Patent Landscape: The patent intersects with other developments in CNS disorder treatments and is subject to metrics evaluating patent scope and clarity.
- Industry Impact: The therapeutic potential is significant, with ongoing research and competition in the pharmaceutical industry.
FAQs
Q: What are the primary therapeutic applications of the compounds described in US7183282B2?
A: The primary therapeutic applications include treating addictive behavior, sleep disorders, obesity, anxiety, depression, psychosis, schizophrenia, and other CNS conditions.
Q: What are the key structural elements of the compounds in this patent?
A: The compounds are characterized by specific substituents such as X being O, S, S(=O), or SO2, and R1 being various carbon substituents.
Q: What types of pharmaceutical formulations are described in the patent?
A: The patent describes various salt forms, crystalline structures, and compositions in combination with pharmaceutically acceptable diluents or carriers, including injectable depot forms.
Q: How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape for CNS disorder treatments?
A: This patent intersects with other developments in CNS disorder treatments, including related compounds and formulations, and is subject to metrics evaluating patent scope and clarity.
Q: What is the significance of the 5-HT2 receptor modulation in this patent?
A: The modulation of 5-HT2 receptors, particularly 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors, is crucial for treating various CNS disorders, and the compounds in this patent are designed to target these receptors.
Sources
- US7183282B2 - Substituted heterocycle fused γ-carbolines - Google Patents
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) | USAGov
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- WO2019236889A1 - Novel salts and crystals - Google Patents
- WO-2020132474-A1 - Organic Compound - Unified Patents
