United States Patent 8,147,852: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
United States Patent 8,147,852, titled "Modified azole compounds as antifungal and antibacterial agents," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antifungal and antibacterial treatments. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
The patent, granted to an undisclosed assignee, focuses on the development of modified azole compounds that exhibit enhanced antifungal and antibacterial properties. Azole compounds are a class of drugs commonly used to treat fungal infections, and this patent introduces novel modifications to these compounds to improve their efficacy and broader applicability.
Scope of the Patent
Pharmaceutical Compositions
The patent encompasses a range of pharmaceutical compositions that include modified azole compounds. These compositions are designed for both systemic and topical administration, targeting various fungal and bacterial disorders[1].
Key Components
- Azole Compounds: The patent lists several azole-containing compounds, including miconazole, clotrimazole, econazole, fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, and others. These compounds are modified to enhance their antifungal and antibacterial activities.
- BHT (Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol): The patent also involves the combination of BHT with azole compounds to form adducts that exhibit improved therapeutic properties.
Therapeutic Applications
The modified azole compounds are intended for treating a variety of fungal and bacterial infections, including candidiasis. The patent specifies methods for topically and systemically administering these compounds to treat such disorders[1].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Claim 1: A method of treating a human suffering from candidiasis by topically administering an effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition containing a modified azole compound.
- Claim 2: A pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound of a specific formula, which includes an azole and a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.
- Claim 3: A method of treating fungal and/or bacterial disorders by systemically or topically administering an effective amount of a compound or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, formed by combining BHT with an azole-containing compound[1].
Dependent Claims
The dependent claims further specify the details of the independent claims, such as the types of azole compounds used, the methods of administration, and the specific formulations of the pharmaceutical compositions.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape in the field of antifungal and antibacterial agents is extensive, with numerous patents and applications focusing on similar or related technologies. For instance, other patents may cover different modifications to azole compounds or alternative therapeutic agents for treating fungal and bacterial infections.
Global Dossier and International Patent Families
Using tools like the Global Dossier provided by the USPTO, one can trace the patent family for this specific application, including related applications filed at participating IP Offices. This helps in understanding the global reach and protection of the invention[4].
Prior Art and Citations
The patent claims research dataset by the USPTO can be used to analyze prior art and citations related to this patent. This dataset provides detailed information on claims from US patents granted between 1976 and 2014, helping to identify the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention[3].
Economic and Market Impact
Market Demand for Antifungal and Antibacterial Agents
The demand for effective antifungal and antibacterial agents is high due to the increasing incidence of resistant infections. This patent addresses a critical need in the healthcare sector, potentially offering better treatment options for patients.
Competitive Landscape
The pharmaceutical industry is highly competitive, with numerous companies developing antifungal and antibacterial treatments. This patent provides its holder with a competitive edge by offering novel and potentially more effective treatments.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
Patent Enforcement and Litigation
The enforcement of this patent involves ensuring that other entities do not infringe on the claimed inventions. This could involve legal actions, as seen in cases like Apple Inc. v. Wi-LAN Inc., where patent infringement and validity are contested[5].
Regulatory Approvals
Before these modified azole compounds can be marketed, they must undergo rigorous regulatory approvals. This includes clinical trials and approvals from regulatory bodies such as the FDA.
Future Directions and Research
Ongoing Research and Development
The field of antifungal and antibacterial agents is continuously evolving. Ongoing research may focus on further modifying these compounds to enhance their efficacy, reduce side effects, or expand their therapeutic applications.
Collaboration and Licensing
Collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and research institutions can accelerate the development and commercialization of these modified azole compounds. Licensing agreements can also play a crucial role in spreading the technology and ensuring broader access to these treatments.
Key Takeaways
- Modified Azole Compounds: The patent introduces novel modifications to azole compounds to enhance their antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Therapeutic Applications: The compounds are designed for treating various fungal and bacterial infections, including candidiasis.
- Pharmaceutical Compositions: The patent covers a range of pharmaceutical compositions for systemic and topical administration.
- Legal and Regulatory Aspects: The patent's enforcement and regulatory approvals are critical for its commercial success.
- Market Impact: The patent addresses a significant need in the healthcare sector and provides a competitive edge in the pharmaceutical market.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary focus of United States Patent 8,147,852?
A: The primary focus is on modified azole compounds as antifungal and antibacterial agents.
Q: Which azole compounds are mentioned in the patent?
A: The patent lists several azole-containing compounds, including miconazole, clotrimazole, econazole, fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, and others.
Q: How are the modified azole compounds administered?
A: The compounds can be administered both systemically and topically, depending on the specific treatment needs.
Q: What is the role of BHT in the patent?
A: BHT (di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol) is combined with azole compounds to form adducts that exhibit improved therapeutic properties.
Q: What are the potential market implications of this patent?
A: The patent offers novel and potentially more effective treatments for fungal and bacterial infections, providing a competitive edge in the pharmaceutical market.
Sources
- US8147852B2 - Modified azole compounds as antifungal and antibacterial agents - Google Patents
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) | USAGov
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO
- APPLE INC. v. WI-LAN INC. - Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
