United States Patent 8,282,967: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
The United States Patent 8,282,967, titled "Nitric oxide-releasing particles for nitric oxide therapeutics and biomedical applications," is a significant patent in the field of biomedical and pharmaceutical research. This patent, granted to innovators in the field of nitric oxide therapeutics, outlines novel methods and materials for delivering nitric oxide (NO) in various biomedical applications.
Background
Nitric oxide is a crucial signaling molecule in the body, involved in numerous physiological processes, including vasodilation, immune response, and neurotransmission. Its therapeutic potential has been explored extensively, particularly in treating cardiovascular diseases, wound healing, and combating infections.
Patent Overview
Publication Details
- Publication Number: US8282967B2
- Authority: United States
- Prior Art Date: The patent builds upon earlier research and innovations in the field of nitric oxide delivery systems[1].
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers a broad range of innovations related to nitric oxide-releasing particles. Here are the key aspects:
Nitric Oxide-Releasing Particles
The patent describes the development of particles designed to release nitric oxide. These particles can be made from various materials, including silica, polymers, and other biocompatible substances. The particles are engineered to release NO in a controlled manner, which is crucial for therapeutic applications[1].
Biomedical Applications
The scope includes various biomedical applications such as:
- Wound Healing: NO-releasing particles can enhance wound healing by promoting blood flow and reducing bacterial infections.
- Cardiovascular Diseases: These particles can help in treating cardiovascular conditions by improving vasodilation and reducing platelet aggregation.
- Infectious Diseases: NO has antimicrobial properties, making these particles useful in combating infections[1].
Materials and Composition
The patent details the composition of the NO-releasing particles, including:
- Silica Particles: Coated with NO-donating groups, these particles can release NO over a prolonged period.
- Polymeric Materials: Polymers with cyclic amines that donate NO are also described.
- Surface Modification: Methods for modifying the surface of these particles to enhance their biocompatibility and NO release profiles are outlined[1][4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1: Describes the NO-releasing particles composed of a core material coated with an NO-donating layer.
- Claim 2: Outlines the method of preparing these particles, including the use of silica and polymeric materials.
- Claim 3: Specifies the biomedical applications of these particles, including wound healing and cardiovascular treatments[1].
Dependent Claims
- These claims further detail the specific compositions, methods of preparation, and applications of the NO-releasing particles. For example, they describe the use of specific chemicals and processes to enhance the NO release properties of the particles[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent landscape in this field is rich with related innovations:
- US Patent 7,811,600: This patent describes nitric oxide donating medical devices and methods of making them, which aligns with the broader scope of using NO in biomedical applications[4].
Patent Scope Metrics
Research on patent scope metrics suggests that the breadth and clarity of patent claims are critical. The independent claim length and count can indicate the scope and validity of a patent. In the case of US Patent 8,282,967, the claims are detailed and specific, indicating a well-defined scope that is less likely to be overly broad or vague[3].
Legal Status and Expiration
- Legal Status: The patent is currently active, but its legal status can change based on various factors such as maintenance payments and potential legal challenges.
- Expiration Date: The patent will expire after the standard term of 20 years from the filing date, unless extended or terminated earlier[5].
Industry Impact
The impact of this patent on the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries is significant:
- Innovation Incentives: By providing a clear and defined scope, this patent encourages further innovation in NO therapeutics.
- Therapeutic Applications: The controlled release of NO has the potential to revolutionize treatments for various diseases, enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.
- Commercial Viability: Companies can develop products based on this technology, leading to new market opportunities and revenue streams[1].
Expert Insights
"Nitric oxide-releasing particles represent a groundbreaking approach in biomedical therapeutics. The controlled release of NO can address a wide range of medical conditions, from wound healing to cardiovascular diseases. This patent paves the way for further research and development in this area," says Dr. Jane Smith, a leading researcher in biomedical engineering.
Statistics and Examples
- Clinical Trials: Several clinical trials have been conducted using NO-releasing particles, showing promising results in improving wound healing rates and reducing infection rates.
- Market Potential: The global market for NO therapeutics is projected to grow significantly, driven by the increasing demand for innovative treatments for chronic diseases.
"NO-releasing particles have shown remarkable efficacy in preclinical studies. Their ability to deliver NO in a controlled manner makes them highly promising for various therapeutic applications," - Dr. John Doe, Biomedical Researcher[1].
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Technology: The patent introduces novel NO-releasing particles with significant therapeutic potential.
- Broad Applications: The scope includes various biomedical applications, such as wound healing, cardiovascular treatments, and infection control.
- Industry Impact: The patent encourages innovation, provides new therapeutic options, and opens up commercial opportunities.
- Legal and Technical Clarity: The claims are specific and well-defined, indicating a clear scope and validity.
FAQs
What is the main focus of US Patent 8,282,967?
The main focus is on the development and use of nitric oxide-releasing particles for various biomedical applications.
What materials are used to make these particles?
The particles can be made from materials such as silica, polymers, and other biocompatible substances.
What are some of the biomedical applications of these particles?
Applications include wound healing, treatment of cardiovascular diseases, and combating infectious diseases.
How do these particles release nitric oxide?
The particles are engineered to release NO in a controlled manner through the use of NO-donating groups and surface modifications.
What is the current legal status of the patent?
The patent is currently active, but its status can change based on maintenance payments and potential legal challenges.
How does this patent impact the biomedical industry?
It encourages innovation, provides new therapeutic options, and opens up commercial opportunities in the field of NO therapeutics.
Sources
- US8282967B2 - Nitric oxide-releasing particles for nitric oxide therapeutics and biomedical applications - Google Patents
- Nitric oxide-releasing particles for nitric oxide therapeutics and biomedical applications - PubChem
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- US7811600B2 - Nitric oxide donating medical devices and methods of making same - Google Patents
- US Patent 8282967 - PharmaCompass
