Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 8,193,204
Introduction
United States Patent 8,193,204, titled "Solid forms of (S)-ethyl 2-amino-3-(4-(2-amino-6-((R)-1-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-isoquinolin-1-yl)phenyl)propanoate," is a patent that covers a specific compound and its applications. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
The patent in question, US 8,193,204, was granted for a compound that acts as an inhibitor of tryptophan hydroxylase. This enzyme is crucial in the biosynthesis of serotonin, and the compound's ability to inhibit it makes it a potential therapeutic agent for reducing peripheral serotonin levels[4].
Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims typically describe the compound itself, its chemical structure, and any specific forms or salts of the compound.
- Claim 1: This claim usually defines the broadest scope of the invention, describing the compound and its general structure.
- Claim 2-5: These claims may narrow down the scope by specifying particular aspects of the compound, such as its stereochemistry or the presence of specific functional groups.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims, adding additional limitations to further define the invention.
- Claim 6-10: These claims might specify particular salts or solvates of the compound, methods of preparation, or specific uses of the compound.
Scope of the Invention
The scope of the invention is determined by the claims and the description provided in the patent specification.
Chemical Structure
The compound is described as having a specific chemical structure, which includes a phenyl group, amino groups, and a methyl or ethyl group. The precise arrangement and stereochemistry of these groups are critical to the compound's activity[4].
Therapeutic Use
The patent indicates that the compound can be used to decrease peripheral serotonin levels, which could have therapeutic implications. This use is a key aspect of the invention's scope.
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent landscape includes prior art that was considered during the examination process. This includes other patents and publications related to similar compounds or uses.
- Prior Art Keywords: Terms like "phenyl," "amino," "salt," and "methyl" indicate the types of compounds and concepts that were considered as prior art[4].
Related Patents
Other patents in the same field may cover similar compounds or methods. Understanding these related patents is crucial for determining the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention.
- Patent Family: The patent may be part of a larger patent family, including applications filed in other jurisdictions or related patents that cover different aspects of the invention[1].
Legal Status and Expiration
The legal status of the patent is an important consideration.
- Active Status: As of the current date, the patent is active and has not expired. However, it is essential to verify the expiration date, as patents typically have a limited lifespan[4].
Claim Construction and Litigation
Claim construction is a critical aspect of patent law, especially in litigation.
- Claim Construction: The process of interpreting the meaning of claim terms is a question of law and is reviewed de novo on appeal. This was highlighted in cases such as Nature Simulation Sys. Inc. v. Autodesk, Inc.[2].
Economic and Research Implications
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide insights into the broader trends and statistics related to patent claims and scope.
- Patent Scope Measurements: Research datasets like those provided by the USPTO can help in understanding the scope and impact of patents, including measures of patent scope and claim-level statistics[3].
Small Claims Patent Court Considerations
In the context of potential disputes or litigation, the concept of a small claims patent court is relevant.
- Feasibility and Structure: Studies by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS) have explored the feasibility and potential structure of a small claims patent court, which could impact how disputes related to this patent are handled[5].
Key Takeaways
- Compound Specificity: The patent covers a specific compound with a detailed chemical structure.
- Therapeutic Use: The compound is intended to inhibit tryptophan hydroxylase and reduce peripheral serotonin levels.
- Claims and Scope: The claims define the invention's scope, including independent and dependent claims.
- Legal Status: The patent is currently active and has not expired.
- Broader Landscape: Understanding related patents, prior art, and legal considerations is crucial for navigating the patent landscape.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary use of the compound described in US 8,193,204?
A: The compound is used as an inhibitor of tryptophan hydroxylase to decrease peripheral serotonin levels.
Q: How are the claims in a patent like US 8,193,204 constructed and interpreted?
A: Claims are constructed through a legal process that involves interpreting the meaning of claim terms, which is reviewed de novo on appeal.
Q: What is the significance of the USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset?
A: This dataset provides detailed information on claims from US patents, helping in understanding trends and statistics related to patent scope and claims.
Q: What is the current legal status of US 8,193,204?
A: As of the current date, the patent is active and has not expired.
Q: How might a small claims patent court impact disputes related to this patent?
A: A small claims patent court could provide a more streamlined and cost-effective way to resolve patent disputes, but its feasibility and structure are still under study.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents
- CAFC - VASCULAR SOLUTIONS LLC v. MEDTRONIC, INC.
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset
- Google Patents - US8193204B2
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court
