United States Patent 7,807,135: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 7,807,135, titled "Stilbene derivatives and their use for binding and imaging amyloid plaques," is a significant patent in the field of medical diagnostics and therapeutics. This patent, granted on October 5, 2010, pertains to methods and compounds for imaging amyloid deposits, which are crucial in the diagnosis and study of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Background
Amyloid plaques are a hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. The ability to image these plaques is vital for diagnosing and monitoring the progression of these diseases. The patent in question addresses this need by describing specific stilbene derivatives and their application in imaging amyloid deposits.
Patent Scope
The scope of a patent is defined by its claims, which outline the specific inventions and innovations covered by the patent.
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the core inventions:
- Claim 1: This claim describes a method for imaging amyloid deposits using specific stilbene derivatives. It outlines the steps involved in preparing the compounds and their use in medical imaging[4].
- Claim 2: This claim focuses on the stilbene derivatives themselves, detailing their chemical structure and the process for synthesizing them[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the inventions by adding additional limitations or details to the independent claims. These claims often cover variations of the main inventions, such as different chemical modifications or specific applications.
Claim Language and Patent Scope Metrics
Research has shown that the scope of a patent can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count. Narrower claims, as indicated by shorter lengths and fewer counts, are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
Independent Claim Length
The length of the independent claims in US Patent 7,807,135 is moderate, indicating a balanced scope that is neither overly broad nor too narrow. This balance is crucial for ensuring the patent's validity and enforceability.
Independent Claim Count
The patent includes a manageable number of independent claims, which suggests that the scope is well-defined and focused on the core inventions.
Classification and Categorization
The patent is classified under various categories that reflect its technical and practical applications:
Chemical Classifications
- C07C: Organic chemistry, specifically cyclic hydrocarbons containing only six-membered aromatic rings[4].
- C07B: General methods of organic chemistry, including the introduction of isotopes into organic compounds[4].
Medical Classifications
- A61K: Preparations for medical, dental, or toiletry purposes, including those containing radioactive substances for in vivo testing[4].
- A61P: Specific therapeutic activity of chemical compounds or medicinal preparations, particularly for neurodegenerative disorders[4].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape is essential for assessing the novelty, non-obviousness, and potential impact of the patent.
Prior Art
The patent cites several prior art references that highlight the existing state of the art in imaging amyloid deposits. These references include earlier patents and scientific publications related to stilbene derivatives and their medical applications[4].
Global Dossier and International Patent Offices
To fully understand the patent landscape, it is important to look beyond the U.S. patent system. Tools like the Global Dossier and databases from international patent offices (such as the European Patent Office, Japan Patent Office, and World Intellectual Property Organization) provide access to related applications and prior art from around the world[1].
Common Citation Document (CCD)
The CCD application consolidates citation data from multiple patent offices, allowing for a comprehensive view of the prior art cited by different offices for the same invention. This tool is particularly useful for identifying potential overlaps or conflicts with other patents[1].
Practical Applications and Impact
The stilbene derivatives described in US Patent 7,807,135 have significant practical applications in medical diagnostics and research.
Imaging Amyloid Deposits
The compounds are designed to bind specifically to amyloid plaques, enabling clear imaging of these deposits in the brain. This capability is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease[4].
Research and Development
The patent's innovations can also drive further research into the causes and treatments of neurodegenerative diseases. By providing new tools for imaging amyloid deposits, the patent supports the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Legal Status and Expiry
As of the current date, the patent is active but nearing its expiry. The legal status indicates that it is set to expire based on the patent term, which typically lasts for 20 years from the filing date of the application[5].
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: Defined by independent and dependent claims, with a focus on stilbene derivatives and their use in imaging amyloid deposits.
- Classification: Classified under chemical and medical categories reflecting its technical and practical applications.
- Patent Landscape: Part of a broader landscape involving prior art, global dossier, and international patent offices.
- Practical Applications: Significant in medical diagnostics and research for neurodegenerative diseases.
- Legal Status: Active but nearing expiry based on the patent term.
FAQs
Q: What is the main invention described in US Patent 7,807,135?
A: The main invention is the use of specific stilbene derivatives for binding and imaging amyloid plaques.
Q: How are the stilbene derivatives synthesized?
A: The patent details the chemical process for synthesizing these compounds, including the necessary reactants and steps involved.
Q: What are the practical applications of this patent?
A: The patent has significant applications in medical diagnostics, particularly in imaging amyloid deposits for diagnosing and monitoring neurodegenerative diseases.
Q: How can one access related international patent applications?
A: Tools like the Global Dossier and databases from international patent offices provide access to related applications and prior art from around the world.
Q: What is the current legal status of US Patent 7,807,135?
A: As of the current date, the patent is active but nearing its expiry based on the patent term.
Sources
- USPTO: Search for patents - USPTO.
- Unified Patents Portal: IL-183946-A0 - Unified Patents Portal.
- SSRN: Patent Claims and Patent Scope.
- Google Patents: US7807135B2 - Stilbene derivatives and their use for binding and imaging amyloid plaques.
- PharmaCompass: US Patent 7807135 | US Patents | Expiry | Expiration | Dates.
