Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 7,300,931
Introduction
United States Patent 7,300,931, titled "Compositions for treating cell proliferation disorders," is a significant patent in the field of oncology and pharmaceuticals. This patent, held by Athenex, Inc. (formerly known as Kinex Pharmaceuticals, LLC), is crucial for understanding the treatment of cell proliferation disorders, particularly in the context of cancer.
Background and Inventors
The patent was invented by David Hangauer and his team, who were recognized for their innovative work in the field of medicinal chemistry. Hangauer received several awards, including the Niagara Frontier Intellectual Property Law Association and the Technical Societies Council of the Niagara Frontier Health Sciences 2007 Inventor of the Year for this patent[4].
Patent Claims
Composition of Matter
The patent claims cover specific compositions of matter designed to treat cell proliferation disorders. These compositions include novel compounds that inhibit protein kinases, which are enzymes involved in the regulation of cell division and growth. The claims are detailed and specify the chemical structures and formulations of these compounds[4].
Method of Use
In addition to the composition of matter claims, the patent also includes method of use claims. These claims describe the therapeutic uses of the compounds, particularly in the treatment of cancer and other cell proliferation disorders. The methods outlined include the administration routes, dosages, and treatment regimens for these compounds[4].
Patent Scope
Therapeutic Applications
The scope of the patent is broad, covering various therapeutic applications. The primary focus is on the treatment of cancer, but the patent also suggests potential uses in other cell proliferation disorders. This includes treatments for conditions where uncontrolled cell growth is a significant issue[4].
Chemical Compounds
The patent scope includes a range of chemical compounds, specifically protein kinase inhibitors. These inhibitors are designed to target and inhibit specific protein kinases that are involved in the signaling pathways that lead to cell proliferation. The detailed chemical structures and synthesis methods are part of the patent claims[4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent 7,300,931 is part of a family of patents related to protein kinase inhibitors and their therapeutic applications. Other patents, such as US Patents 7,070,936 B1 and 7,005,445 B2, also filed by Hangauer and his team, complement this patent by covering different aspects of the technology, including methods for designing protein kinase inhibitors and other compositions[4].
International Patent Filings
To protect the invention globally, the patent holders have likely filed corresponding patent applications in other countries. This is a common practice to ensure that the intellectual property is protected across different jurisdictions. Resources like the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and national patent offices provide databases to search for such international filings[1].
Search and Analysis Tools
USPTO Resources
For a comprehensive analysis of the patent landscape, tools provided by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) are invaluable. The Patent Public Search tool, for instance, allows for detailed searches of prior art and related patents. The Global Dossier service provides access to file histories and related applications from participating IP offices, which can help in understanding the global patent family of this invention[1].
International Databases
Databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and WIPO's PATENTSCOPE service can be used to search for international patent filings related to this invention. These databases often include machine translations of patents, which can be particularly useful for analyzing patents filed in different languages[1].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide insights into the scope and claims of this patent. This dataset includes detailed information on claims from US patents and applications, which can help in analyzing the patent's scope and its position within the broader patent landscape[3].
Market Impact
The patent's economic implications are significant, given the potential market for cancer treatments. The development and commercialization of these compounds can lead to substantial revenue and impact the pharmaceutical industry. The patent term extension application for this patent, as seen in the FDA's CDER documentation, highlights the importance of extending the patent term to maximize the return on investment in research and development[2].
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Patent Term Extension
The application for patent term extension, as filed with the FDA, indicates the importance of maintaining patent protection for as long as possible. This is crucial for recouping the significant investment in research and development and for ensuring market exclusivity[2].
Office Actions and Examination
Using tools like the Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) and the Common Citation Document (CCD), one can analyze the office actions and examination history of this patent. These tools provide insights into how the patent was examined and any challenges or citations that were addressed during the examination process[1].
Key Takeaways
- Composition and Method Claims: The patent covers specific compositions of matter and methods of use for treating cell proliferation disorders.
- Therapeutic Applications: The primary focus is on cancer treatment, with potential uses in other cell proliferation disorders.
- Related Patents: Part of a family of patents related to protein kinase inhibitors.
- Global Protection: Likely filed in multiple jurisdictions to ensure global protection.
- Economic Impact: Significant market potential and economic implications.
- Legal Considerations: Patent term extension and office actions are critical for maintaining protection.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 7,300,931?
A: The main subject is compositions for treating cell proliferation disorders, particularly cancer.
Q: Who are the inventors of this patent?
A: The inventors include David Hangauer and his team.
Q: What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape for this invention?
A: Tools such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and international databases like EPO's esp@cenet and WIPO's PATENTSCOPE.
Q: Why is patent term extension important for this patent?
A: Patent term extension is crucial for maximizing the return on investment in research and development and maintaining market exclusivity.
Q: How can one access detailed information on the claims of this patent?
A: The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from US patents and applications.
Sources
- USPTO: "Search for patents - USPTO"
- Regulations.gov: "Patent Term Extension Application for KLISYRI ... - Regulations.gov"
- USPTO: "Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO"
- University at Buffalo: "Hangauer, David - Department of Chemistry - University at Buffalo"
