Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 7,560,120
Introduction
United States Patent 7,560,120, titled "Sustained Release Formulations for Delivery of Therapeutic Agents," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly for the treatment of ocular diseases. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Invention
The patent 7,560,120 is part of a series of inventions aimed at developing biocompatible and biodegradable injectable pharmaceutical formulations. These formulations are designed for the sustained release of therapeutic agents, specifically targeting ocular-related disorders such as ocular neovascularization and age-related macular degeneration[1].
Scope of the Invention
Therapeutic Agents and Excipients
The patent describes formulations that include at least one therapeutic agent, such as proteins, and biodegradable, biocompatible non-polymeric liquid excipients. These excipients can include benzyl benzoate, esters of benzoic acid with various aliphatic alcohols, and dimethyl sulfide. The formulation maintains its liquid state after injection, ensuring the monolithic integrity of the unit dose and gradual dissolution over time[1].
Application in Ocular Treatments
The invention is particularly advantageous for ocular treatments because it allows for the direct application of therapeutic agents to the affected areas of the eye without the harmful side effects associated with systemic therapies. This targeted approach enhances the efficacy and safety of the treatment[1].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. Key claims include:
- A pharmaceutical formulation for injection into the eye, comprising at least one active agent and at least one biodegradable, biocompatible, non-polymeric liquid excipient.
- The formulation maintains its liquid state after injection and gradually dissolves over time, releasing the active agent[1].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the composition and characteristics of the formulation, such as:
- The ratio of polymer to non-polymer excipients, which can range from 1:99 to 10:90 (wt. %).
- Specific examples of excipients and their combinations, such as citrate esters and PLGA (polylactic-co-glycolic acid)[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Publications
The patent 7,560,120 is part of a broader landscape of patents and publications related to sustained release formulations and ocular treatments. Other related patents include those for systems, kits, and methods for loading and delivering small volume doses from syringes, and the use of sustained release dexamethasone in post-cataract surgery inflammation[1].
Global Patent System Integration
The USPTO's Global Dossier service provides access to the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, which can include the IP5 Offices. This integration helps in understanding the global patent family and the citation data for these applications, facilitating a more comprehensive analysis of the patent landscape[4].
Economic and Legal Implications
Patent Scope and Claims Analysis
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from US patents and patent applications, which can be used to analyze the scope and claims of patents like 7,560,120. This dataset includes claim-level statistics and document-level statistics, helping to understand the breadth and depth of the patent's protection[3].
Potential for Small Claims Patent Court
The discussion around a small claims patent court, as studied by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), could impact the enforcement and litigation landscape for patents like 7,560,120. A small claims court could provide a more streamlined and cost-effective way to resolve patent disputes, which could be particularly beneficial for smaller entities and inventors[5].
Industry Impact and Applications
Ocular Treatments
The invention described in patent 7,560,120 has significant implications for the treatment of ocular diseases. By providing a sustained release of therapeutic agents directly to the eye, it offers a more effective and safer alternative to traditional systemic therapies. This can lead to improved patient outcomes and reduced side effects[1].
Pharmaceutical Formulations
The use of biocompatible and biodegradable excipients in these formulations sets a new standard in pharmaceutical delivery systems. This approach can be adapted for other therapeutic areas beyond ocular treatments, potentially revolutionizing how drugs are delivered and absorbed by the body[1].
Key Takeaways
- Biocompatible and Biodegradable Formulations: The patent 7,560,120 introduces formulations that are both biocompatible and biodegradable, ensuring safe and effective delivery of therapeutic agents.
- Ocular Treatments: The invention is particularly beneficial for ocular diseases, offering targeted therapy with reduced side effects.
- Patent Scope and Claims: The patent includes detailed claims defining the composition and characteristics of the formulations, with a focus on maintaining liquid state and gradual dissolution.
- Global Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader global patent landscape, with tools like the Global Dossier facilitating comprehensive analysis.
- Economic and Legal Implications: The patent's scope and claims have economic and legal implications, including potential impacts from a small claims patent court.
FAQs
Q1: What is the primary application of the patent 7,560,120?
The primary application is for the therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of ocular-related disorders, such as ocular neovascularization and age-related macular degeneration.
Q2: What are the key components of the pharmaceutical formulation described in the patent?
The key components include at least one active agent and at least one biodegradable, biocompatible, non-polymeric liquid excipient.
Q3: How does the formulation maintain its integrity after injection?
The formulation maintains its liquid state after injection and gradually dissolves over time, ensuring the monolithic integrity of the unit dose.
Q4: What is the significance of using biocompatible and biodegradable excipients?
Using biocompatible and biodegradable excipients ensures that the formulation is non-toxic and non-irritating, and it does not compromise the stability of the active agent.
Q5: How can the Global Dossier service help in analyzing this patent?
The Global Dossier service provides access to the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the patent family and citation data.
Sources
- US Patent Application for Sustained Release Formulations for Delivery of Active Agents. Justia Patents.
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) | USAGov. USA.gov.
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO. USPTO.
- Search for patents - USPTO. USPTO.
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court. ACUS.
