Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 8,101,623
Introduction
United States Patent 8,101,623, titled "Substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine as a protein kinase B inhibitor," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of inhibitors for protein kinase B (PKB or AKT). Here, we will delve into the details of this patent, including its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape it operates within.
Background of the Patent
The patent, filed on October 14, 2008, and granted on January 24, 2012, pertains to a novel group of compounds that act as inhibitors of protein kinase B. Protein kinase B is a key enzyme involved in various cellular processes, including cell survival, proliferation, and metabolism. Inhibitors of this enzyme have potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of cancers and other diseases associated with abnormal PKB activity[4].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which outline the specific compounds and their uses that are protected under the patent.
Claims Overview
The patent includes multiple claims that describe the chemical structure of the substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine compounds, their salts, and their use as protein kinase B inhibitors. Here are some key aspects of the claims:
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Chemical Structure: The claims specify the general formula of the compounds, including the substituents and their positions on the pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine ring. For example, the formula includes variables such as Y, Z1, Z2, R1, R4, R5, and n, which are defined in detail within the patent[4].
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Salts and Solvates: The patent also covers various salts and solvates of these compounds, which are important for pharmaceutical formulation and stability.
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Therapeutic Use: The claims extend to the use of these compounds as inhibitors of protein kinase B, highlighting their potential therapeutic applications.
Detailed Analysis of Claims
Independent Claims
The independent claims are crucial as they define the broadest scope of protection for the invention. For instance:
- Claim 1 describes the general structure of the substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine compounds.
- Claim 2 specifies the salts of these compounds.
- Claim 3 outlines the use of these compounds as protein kinase B inhibitors[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims narrow down the scope by adding additional limitations to the independent claims. These claims often provide more specific examples of the compounds, their synthesis, and their therapeutic applications.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent landscape for protein kinase B inhibitors is complex, with numerous prior art patents and publications. The '623 patent distinguishes itself by its specific chemical structures and the detailed description of the therapeutic applications of these compounds. Prior art typically includes other kinase inhibitors and related compounds, but the unique substitution patterns and specific therapeutic uses described in this patent set it apart[4].
Related Patents
Other patents in the same family or related fields often cover different aspects of kinase inhibitors, such as different chemical structures, synthesis methods, or specific therapeutic indications. For example, patents related to other kinase inhibitors might cover different types of kinases or different disease targets.
Expiration and Patent Term
The patent term for U.S. Patent 8,101,623 is 20 years from the filing date of the application, which was October 14, 2008. Therefore, the patent is set to expire on October 14, 2028, unless there are any patent term adjustments or extensions.
Strategic Implications
Patent Protection
The patent provides exclusive rights to the patent holder to make, use, sell, and import the described compounds for the specified period. This protection is crucial for pharmaceutical companies to recoup their investment in research and development.
Licensing and Collaboration
The patent can also be licensed to other companies, allowing them to use the protected compounds in their own products. This can be a significant revenue stream for the patent holder and can facilitate collaboration in the development of new therapies.
Litigation and Enforcement
The patent holder must be vigilant in enforcing their rights against potential infringers. This involves monitoring the market for unauthorized use of the protected compounds and taking legal action when necessary.
Conclusion
U.S. Patent 8,101,623 is a critical patent in the field of protein kinase B inhibitors, offering a unique set of compounds with therapeutic potential. Understanding the scope and claims of this patent is essential for navigating the complex patent landscape in pharmaceuticals.
Key Takeaways
- Unique Chemical Structures: The patent covers specific substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine compounds and their salts.
- Therapeutic Use: The compounds are described as inhibitors of protein kinase B, with potential applications in treating various diseases.
- Patent Term: The patent is set to expire on October 14, 2028.
- Strategic Importance: The patent provides exclusive rights and can be licensed or enforced to protect the patent holder's interests.
FAQs
Q: What is the main subject of U.S. Patent 8,101,623?
A: The main subject is a novel group of substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine compounds that act as inhibitors of protein kinase B.
Q: What is the therapeutic potential of these compounds?
A: These compounds have potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of cancers and other diseases associated with abnormal PKB activity.
Q: When is the patent set to expire?
A: The patent is set to expire on October 14, 2028.
Q: Can the patent be licensed to other companies?
A: Yes, the patent can be licensed to other companies, allowing them to use the protected compounds in their own products.
Q: Why is patent enforcement important for the patent holder?
A: Patent enforcement is crucial for the patent holder to protect their exclusive rights and prevent unauthorized use of the protected compounds.
Sources
- US8101623B2 - Substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine as a protein kinase B inhibitor - Google Patents
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- U.S. Patent Small Claims Court - ACUS
- US8101623B2 - Substituted pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine as a protein kinase B inhibitor - Google Patents
