United States Patent 7,910,605 B2: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 7,910,605 B2, titled "Non-imidazole alkylamines as histamine H3-receptor ligands and their therapeutic applications," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of histamine H3-receptor ligands. This patent, assigned to Societe Civile Bioprojet, was granted on March 22, 2011. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Inventors
The patent was filed on July 3, 2006, by a team of inventors including Jean-Charles Schwartz, Jean-Michel Arrang, Monique Garbarg, Jeanne-Marie Lecomte, Xavier Ligneau, Walter G. Schunack, Holger Stark, Charon Robin Ganellin, Fabien Leurquin, and Sigurd Elz. These researchers were affiliated with institutions in France, Germany, and the UK, highlighting the international collaboration in pharmaceutical research[1].
Scope of the Invention
The patent focuses on non-imidazole alkylamines that act as histamine H3-receptor ligands. These compounds have therapeutic applications, particularly in treating conditions related to the central nervous system, such as sleep disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and cognitive impairments.
Therapeutic Applications
The histamine H3 receptor is a key target in the treatment of various neurological and psychiatric disorders. The compounds described in this patent are designed to modulate the activity of this receptor, offering potential therapeutic benefits. The therapeutic applications include:
- Sleep Disorders: Compounds that can regulate the histamine H3 receptor may help in managing sleep disorders by influencing the sleep-wake cycle.
- ADHD: Modulation of the histamine H3 receptor can impact attention and cognitive functions, making these compounds potential treatments for ADHD.
- Cognitive Impairments: The compounds may also be used to treat cognitive impairments associated with various neurological conditions[1].
Claims of the Patent
The claims of the patent are crucial as they define the scope of the invention and what is protected under the patent.
General Formula
The patent describes compounds with specific general formulas (IIa and IIb), which include various structural elements such as hydrocarbon chains, hetero atoms, and functional groups. For example:
- General Formula (IIa): R1 V N- (chain AII)-XI-(chain Bil)-Y or R2
- General Formula (IIb): R V N- (chain AII)-XII-YII
These formulas outline the chemical structure of the non-imidazole alkylamines, specifying the types of chains and functional groups that are part of the compounds[1].
Specific Compounds
The patent also lists specific compounds that fall under these general formulas, each with detailed chemical structures and properties. These compounds were synthesized and tested for their efficacy as histamine H3-receptor ligands.
Patent Claims Analysis
Claim Structure
The claims are structured to cover the broadest possible scope of the invention while avoiding prior art. The patent includes multiple claims, each defining a different aspect of the invention, such as the chemical structure, therapeutic use, and methods of synthesis.
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes both independent and dependent claims. Independent claims stand alone and define the invention in its broadest terms, while dependent claims build upon the independent claims and provide more specific details. This structure helps in ensuring that the patent covers all possible variations of the invention[5].
Patent Scope Metrics
Independent Claim Length and Count
Research on patent scope metrics suggests that the length and count of independent claims can be indicative of the patent's breadth and complexity. Patents with narrower claims at publication tend to have a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process compared to those with broader claims[3].
Application to US 7,910,605 B2
For US 7,910,605 B2, the claims are detailed and specific, indicating a well-defined scope of the invention. The use of multiple independent and dependent claims helps in ensuring that the patent covers the therapeutic applications and chemical structures comprehensively.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent is part of a series of related patents filed by the same inventors and assignees. For example, US 7,169,928 and US 7,138,413 are earlier patents that also deal with histamine H3-receptor ligands and their therapeutic applications. These patents collectively form a robust portfolio in the field of histamine H3-receptor research[1].
Patent Expiration
The patent US 7,910,605 B2 has expired as of April 24, 2023. This expiration means that the protected compounds and methods are now in the public domain, allowing other companies to develop and market similar products without infringing on the original patent[4].
Generic Launch
With the expiration of the patent, generic versions of the drug can be launched. For instance, the drug Wakix, which is protected by related patents, will see generic competition once its relevant patents expire. This competition can lead to lower prices and increased accessibility of the medication[4].
Consequences of Disclosure Without Claiming
It is crucial to note that any invention disclosed but not claimed in the patent becomes part of the public domain. This oversight can result in the loss of valuable intellectual property. In the context of US 7,910,605 B2, all disclosed compounds and methods that were not specifically claimed are now freely available for use by others[5].
Key Takeaways
- Scope of Invention: The patent covers non-imidazole alkylamines as histamine H3-receptor ligands with therapeutic applications in neurological and psychiatric disorders.
- Claims Structure: The patent includes detailed claims defining the chemical structures and therapeutic uses, ensuring broad coverage of the invention.
- Patent Metrics: The use of specific and multiple claims indicates a well-defined scope, aligning with best practices for patent scope metrics.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a larger portfolio on histamine H3-receptor research and has expired, allowing for generic competition.
- Public Domain: Disclosed but unclaimed inventions become public domain, emphasizing the importance of thorough claim drafting.
FAQs
What is the main focus of United States Patent 7,910,605 B2?
The main focus of this patent is on non-imidazole alkylamines that act as histamine H3-receptor ligands and their therapeutic applications.
Who are the inventors of this patent?
The inventors include Jean-Charles Schwartz, Jean-Michel Arrang, Monique Garbarg, Jeanne-Marie Lecomte, Xavier Ligneau, Walter G. Schunack, Holger Stark, Charon Robin Ganellin, Fabien Leurquin, and Sigurd Elz.
What are the therapeutic applications of the compounds described in this patent?
The compounds have therapeutic applications in treating sleep disorders, ADHD, and cognitive impairments.
What is the significance of the claims in a patent?
The claims define the scope of the invention and what is protected under the patent, similar to how property lines define the boundaries of a piece of land.
When did the patent US 7,910,605 B2 expire?
The patent expired on April 24, 2023.
Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. Non-imidazole alkylamines as histamine H3-receptor ligands and their therapeutic applications. US 7,910,605 B2, March 22, 2011.
- United States Patent and Trademark Office. Patent Claims Research Dataset. August 28, 2017.
- Marco, Alan C., Sarnoff, Joshua D., and deGrazia, Charles. Patent Claims and Patent Scope. SSRN, September 29, 2016.
- Pharsight. Wakix patent expiration. Retrieved December 20, 2024.
- The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society. Loss of Patent Rights—Inventions That Are Disclosed But Not Claimed. Retrieved December 20, 2024.