United States Patent 8,252,929: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 8,252,929, titled "8-carboxamido-2,6-methano-3-benzazocines," is a patent that covers a class of compounds with potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the field of opioid receptors. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Invention Overview
The patent US8252929B2 describes a series of 8-carboxamido-2,6-methano-3-benzazocines, which are compounds that exhibit binding at opioid receptors. These compounds are of interest due to their potential as therapeutic agents, particularly for their analgesic and antitussive effects[4].
Scope of the Patent
Claim Language and Scope
The patent scope is defined by the claims, which are the legally binding descriptions of the invention. For US8252929B2, the claims are centered around the chemical structure and properties of the 8-carboxamido-2,6-methano-3-benzazocines.
- Independent Claims: The patent includes several independent claims that define the core aspects of the invention. These claims specify the chemical structure, including the presence of specific functional groups and the overall molecular framework[4].
- Dependent Claims: Dependent claims further narrow down the scope by adding additional limitations to the independent claims. These may include specific substituents, stereochemistry, or other structural features.
Patent Claim Metrics
Research on patent scope often uses metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count to assess the breadth and clarity of patent claims. For US8252929B2, the claims are detailed and specific, indicating a narrower scope which is generally associated with higher patent quality and reduced litigation risks[3].
Claims Analysis
Chemical Structure
The claims describe compounds with a specific 8-carboxamido-2,6-methano-3-benzazocine core structure. Key features include:
- The presence of a carboxamido group at the 8-position.
- Specific alkyl, aryl, and heterocyclic groups that can be substituted at various positions.
- The requirement for these compounds to exhibit opioid receptor binding below 25 nM[4].
Functional Groups and Substituents
The patent details various functional groups and substituents that can be present on the core structure, including:
- Hydroxy, alkyl, alkoxy, and carbonyl groups.
- Specific mention of morphinan and benzyl groups, which are common in opioid chemistry[4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Prior Art
The patent landscape for opioid receptor-binding compounds is extensive. Other patents, such as US6784187B2, also describe similar compounds with opioid receptor activity. These patents often overlap in terms of chemical structure but may differ in specific substituents or therapeutic applications[2].
Government Interest and Funding
Some patents in the pharmaceutical sector, including those related to opioid research, may have government-interest statements if they were developed using federal funding. However, US8252929B2 does not appear to have such statements, indicating it may not have been developed under federal grants[1].
Examination Process and Patent Quality
The examination process for US8252929B2 would have involved a thorough review of the claims to ensure they meet the criteria for patentability, including novelty, non-obviousness, and utility. The narrower claims in this patent suggest that the examination process likely resulted in a more focused and clear definition of the invention, which is a hallmark of high-quality patents[3].
Therapeutic Applications
The compounds described in US8252929B2 have potential therapeutic applications, particularly in pain management and as antitussive agents. The opioid receptor binding activity makes them candidates for treating conditions where opioid receptors play a crucial role.
Conclusion and Implications
The United States Patent 8,252,929 provides a detailed and specific description of a class of compounds with significant therapeutic potential. The narrow scope of the claims ensures clarity and reduces the risk of litigation, making it a high-quality patent. Understanding the scope and claims of this patent is crucial for researchers and companies working in the field of opioid receptor chemistry.
Key Takeaways
- Specific Claims: The patent includes detailed and specific claims that define the chemical structure and properties of the 8-carboxamido-2,6-methano-3-benzazocines.
- Narrow Scope: The claims are narrow, indicating a focused and clear definition of the invention.
- Therapeutic Potential: The compounds have potential therapeutic applications in pain management and as antitussive agents.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of opioid receptor-binding compounds, with some overlap but distinct features.
FAQs
What is the main subject of United States Patent 8,252,929?
The main subject is a class of compounds known as 8-carboxamido-2,6-methano-3-benzazocines, which exhibit opioid receptor binding activity.
What are the key features of the compounds described in the patent?
The compounds have a specific core structure with a carboxamido group at the 8-position and various substituents such as alkyl, aryl, and heterocyclic groups.
What is the therapeutic potential of these compounds?
These compounds have potential therapeutic applications in pain management and as antitussive agents due to their opioid receptor binding activity.
How does the scope of this patent compare to others in the field?
The scope is narrow and specific, which is generally associated with higher patent quality and reduced litigation risks compared to broader or more vague claims.
Was this patent developed using federal funding?
There is no indication that this patent was developed using federal funding, as it does not include government-interest statements.
Cited Sources:
- The Feasibility of Using Bayh-Dole March-In Rights to Lower Drug Prices - National Bureau of Economic Research.
- US-6784187-B2 - PubChem.
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - Hoover Institution.
- US8252929B2 - Google Patents.
