United States Patent 7,803,840 B2: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 7,803,840 B2, titled "Utilization of dialkylfumarates," is a patent that pertains to the use of specific dialkyl fumarates in pharmaceutical preparations, particularly in the context of transplantation medicine and the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication and Status
The patent was published on September 28, 2010, and has since expired due to non-payment of maintenance fees[4].
Inventors and Assignees
The patent lists the inventors and assignees involved in the development of this pharmaceutical preparation. Understanding the assignees can provide insight into the commercial and research interests behind the patent.
Prior Art and Background
The patent builds upon existing knowledge in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly focusing on the use of dialkyl fumarates. Prior art keywords include "pharmaceutical preparation," "dimethyl fumarate," and "microtablets," indicating the specific areas of innovation[4].
Scope of the Patent
Claim Analysis
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. Here are some key aspects:
Independent Claims
- The patent claims the use of dialkyl fumarates, specifically dimethyl fumarate, for the preparation of pharmaceuticals. For example, Claim 1 describes a method for treating autoimmune diseases using dimethyl fumarate[4].
Dependent Claims
- Dependent claims further specify the methods and compositions, such as the use of microtablets and capsules containing at least 50 mg of dimethyl fumarate[4].
Claim Metrics
Research suggests that the scope of patent claims can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count. Narrower claims, as seen in this patent, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Claims and Their Significance
Method Claims
- The method claims outline the specific processes for preparing and administering the pharmaceuticals. For instance, Claim 12 describes the method where microtablets are provided in one or more capsules, each containing a specified amount of dimethyl fumarate[5].
Composition Claims
- Composition claims define the specific formulations and ingredients used in the pharmaceutical preparations. These claims are crucial for distinguishing the invention from prior art and ensuring that the patent covers the unique aspects of the invention[4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape for dialkyl fumarates and related pharmaceutical preparations is extensive. Other patents and applications may cover similar uses or different formulations of dialkyl fumarates. For example, patents from other countries or regions, such as those accessible through the European Patent Office (EPO) or the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), may provide additional context on global innovations in this field[1].
International Patent Offices
To fully understand the patent landscape, it is essential to search international patent databases. Resources like the EPO's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office, and WIPO's PATENTSCOPE provide access to global patent information, including machine translations for some languages[1].
Prior Art and Citation Data
Tools like the Common Citation Document (CCD) application can help consolidate prior art cited by multiple patent offices, providing a comprehensive view of the prior art landscape for the family members of a patent application[1].
Impact and Applications
Therapeutic Uses
The patent covers the use of dimethyl fumarate for treating various autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis, psoriatic arthritis, and polyarthritis. This indicates the potential therapeutic impact of the invention in these areas[4].
Commercial and Research Implications
The expiration of the patent due to non-payment of maintenance fees suggests that the commercial interest in this specific formulation may have waned, or the patent holder may have shifted focus to other areas. However, the research implications remain significant, as the use of dialkyl fumarates continues to be a subject of interest in pharmaceutical research.
Search and Analysis Tools
USPTO Resources
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provides several tools for searching and analyzing patents, including the Patent Public Search tool, Global Dossier, and the Patent Examination Data System (PEDS). These resources can help in conducting a thorough search of prior art and understanding the examination history of the patent[1].
Public Search Facility and PTRCs
The USPTO Public Search Facility and Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs) offer additional resources and trained staff to assist in patent searches and analysis[1].
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope and Claims: The patent covers the use of dialkyl fumarates, specifically dimethyl fumarate, for pharmaceutical preparations, with claims defining the methods and compositions.
- Patent Landscape: The landscape includes related patents and applications globally, accessible through various international patent databases.
- Impact and Applications: The patent has therapeutic implications for treating autoimmune diseases, though its commercial impact may be limited due to its expiration.
- Search and Analysis Tools: Utilizing USPTO resources and international databases is crucial for a comprehensive analysis.
Key Takeaways
- Specific Claims: The patent includes method and composition claims that define the scope of the invention.
- Therapeutic Applications: The invention is used for treating autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and psoriatic arthritis.
- Global Patent Landscape: Searching international patent databases is essential for understanding the broader patent landscape.
- Expiration and Commercial Impact: The patent's expiration suggests a shift in commercial interest or focus.
- Research Implications: The use of dialkyl fumarates remains a significant area of research in pharmaceuticals.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of United States Patent 7,803,840 B2?
A: The main subject is the use of dialkyl fumarates, specifically dimethyl fumarate, for pharmaceutical preparations in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Q: Why is the patent no longer in force?
A: The patent has expired due to non-payment of maintenance fees.
Q: What are some of the diseases treated by the pharmaceuticals described in the patent?
A: The patent covers treatments for multiple sclerosis, psoriatic arthritis, and polyarthritis.
Q: How can one search for related patents globally?
A: One can use resources like the EPO's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office, and WIPO's PATENTSCOPE to search for related patents globally.
Q: What tools does the USPTO provide for patent search and analysis?
A: The USPTO provides tools such as the Patent Public Search tool, Global Dossier, and the Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) for searching and analyzing patents.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- USPTO - Patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents
- SSRN - Patent Claims and Patent Scope: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2844964
- Google Patents - US7803840B2: https://patents.google.com/patent/US7803840B2/en
- Regulations.gov - In re US Patent No. 7803840 B2: https://downloads.regulations.gov/FDA-2014-E-0945-0002/attachment_1.pdf
