United States Patent 7,888,364: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 7,888,364, titled "Pyridyl inhibitors of hedgehog signalling," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the treatment of malignancies. This patent, assigned to Curis, Inc., introduces novel inhibitors of the hedgehog signaling pathway, which is crucial in various cancer therapies.
Background and Context
The hedgehog signaling pathway is a key regulatory pathway in cell development and growth. Aberrant activation of this pathway has been linked to several types of cancer, making it a target for therapeutic interventions. The patent in question addresses this need by providing new chemical compounds that inhibit hedgehog signaling.
Inventors and Assignee
The patent was invented by a team of researchers including Janet L. Gunzner, Daniel Sutherlin, Mark S. Stanley, Liang Bao, Georgette M. Castanedo, Rebecca L. Lalonde, Shumei Wang, Mark E. Reynolds, Scott J. Savage, Kimberly Malesky, and Michael S. Dina. The assignee of the patent is Curis, Inc., a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, MA[2].
Patent Scope and Claims
General Formula and Chemical Structure
The patent describes novel inhibitors of hedgehog signaling with a general formula that includes pyridyl compounds. These compounds are characterized by specific chemical structures, including pyridin, phenyl, and other functional groups. The general formula I outlined in the patent provides a broad range of possible compounds that can be synthesized and tested for their inhibitory effects on the hedgehog pathway[2].
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes 55 claims, which are divided into independent and dependent claims. Independent claims define the broad scope of the invention, while dependent claims narrow down the scope by adding specific features or limitations. For example, Claim 1 describes the general formula of the pyridyl compounds, while subsequent claims specify various substituents and modifications that can be made to these compounds[2].
Claim Language and Metrics
The claim language is a critical aspect of patent scope. Metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be used to measure the breadth and complexity of the patent. In this case, the multiple claims and detailed descriptions indicate a comprehensive coverage of the invention[3].
Therapeutic Applications
Cancer Treatment
The primary therapeutic application of these pyridyl inhibitors is in the treatment of malignancies where hedgehog signaling is aberrantly activated. This includes various types of cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma, medulloblastoma, and other tumors that are driven by hedgehog pathway dysregulation[2][5].
Clinical Conditions
The patent also mentions other clinical conditions that may be responsive to the inhibition of hedgehog activity, although cancer treatment is the primary focus. This suggests a potential broader therapeutic utility beyond oncology[4].
Patent Expiration and Landscape
Patent Expiration Date
The patent is set to expire on November 11, 2028. This expiration date is significant as it marks the end of the exclusive rights granted to the patent holder, potentially allowing for the development of generic versions of the drug[5].
Related Patents
There are several related patents that also deal with hedgehog signaling inhibitors. For example, patents 9,278,961 and 9,790,183, also assigned to inventors from Curis, Inc. and later to Genentech, Inc., describe similar compounds and therapeutic applications. These patents have different expiration dates, with the latest expiring on December 15, 2028[5].
Generic Availability
As of the current date, there is no therapeutically equivalent generic version of the drug (e.g., Erivedge) available in the United States. The absence of generic alternatives is due to the ongoing patent protection[5].
Impact on Innovation and Litigation
The breadth and clarity of patent claims can significantly impact innovation and litigation costs. Broad patents with unclear claims can lead to increased licensing and litigation costs, potentially diminishing incentives for further innovation. However, the detailed and specific claims in this patent suggest a well-defined scope that should help in avoiding such issues[3].
Conclusion
United States Patent 7,888,364 represents a significant advancement in the field of cancer therapy by providing novel inhibitors of the hedgehog signaling pathway. The patent's scope, claims, and therapeutic applications are well-defined, making it a valuable asset in the treatment of malignancies. As the patent approaches its expiration date, it will be important to monitor the development of generic versions and the broader patent landscape.
Key Takeaways
- The patent describes novel pyridyl compounds that inhibit hedgehog signaling.
- These compounds are useful in treating malignancies, particularly those driven by aberrant hedgehog pathway activation.
- The patent includes 55 claims that define the scope of the invention.
- The patent is set to expire on November 11, 2028.
- Related patents also cover similar therapeutic agents with different expiration dates.
- No generic versions of the drug are currently available.
FAQs
What is the primary therapeutic application of the pyridyl inhibitors described in US Patent 7,888,364?
The primary therapeutic application is in the treatment of malignancies, particularly those driven by aberrant hedgehog signaling.
Who are the inventors of US Patent 7,888,364?
The inventors include Janet L. Gunzner, Daniel Sutherlin, Mark S. Stanley, Liang Bao, Georgette M. Castanedo, Rebecca L. Lalonde, Shumei Wang, Mark E. Reynolds, Scott J. Savage, Kimberly Malesky, and Michael S. Dina.
What is the assignee of US Patent 7,888,364?
The assignee is Curis, Inc., a biotechnology company based in Cambridge, MA.
When is the patent set to expire?
The patent is set to expire on November 11, 2028.
Are there any generic versions of the drug available?
No, there are currently no therapeutically equivalent generic versions of the drug available in the United States.
Cited Sources:
- US7888364B2 - Pyridyl inhibitors of hedgehog signalling - Google Patents
- (12) United States Patent - googleapis.com
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Hoover Institution
- (12) United States Patent - googleapis.com (US10676468)
- Generic Erivedge Availability - Drugs.com
