Boron-Containing Small Molecules as Anti-Inflammatory Agents: A Detailed Analysis of United States Patent 8,501,712
Introduction
United States Patent 8,501,712, issued on August 6, 2013, is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly focusing on the use of boron-containing small molecules as anti-inflammatory agents. This patent, assigned to Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc., outlines innovative methods for treating various inflammatory conditions using these unique molecules.
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by a team of researchers including Stephen J. Baker, Virginia Sanders, Tsutomu Akama, Carolyn Bellinger-Kawahara, Yvonne Freund, Kirk R. Maples, Jacob J. Plattner, Yong-Kang Zhang, Huchen Zhou, and Vincent S. Hernandez. The assignee of the patent is Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a company known for its advancements in pharmaceutical research and development[2][4].
Patent Claims
The patent claims revolve around the use of boron-containing small molecules for treating anti-inflammatory conditions. Here are some key aspects of the claims:
- Boron-Containing Compounds: The patent describes various boron-containing small molecules, including their chemical structures and synthesis methods. These compounds are designed to target and modulate inflammatory pathways[4].
- Therapeutic Uses: The claims cover the treatment of a wide range of inflammatory diseases, including but not limited to arthritis, asthma, allergic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases. The patent also mentions the treatment of specific conditions like ulcerative colitis, congestive heart failure, and atopic eczema[4].
- Pharmaceutical Compositions: The patent includes claims related to pharmaceutical compositions that contain these boron-containing small molecules, along with appropriate excipients and formulations for administration[4].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is broad, covering multiple aspects of the use and application of boron-containing small molecules:
- Disease Targets: The patent encompasses a wide array of inflammatory diseases, indicating a comprehensive approach to treating inflammation across various body systems.
- Chemical Structures: The patent details various chemical structures of the boron-containing compounds, providing a basis for further research and development of similar molecules.
- Synthesis and Formulation: The claims include methods for synthesizing these compounds and formulating them into pharmaceutical products, which is crucial for their practical application[4].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape surrounding US 8,501,712 is complex and involves several related patents:
- Related Patents: Other patents issued to Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc., such as US 8,039,451, US 8,168,614, and US 9,682,092, also focus on boron-containing small molecules as anti-inflammatory agents. These patents collectively form a robust portfolio of intellectual property in this area[2].
- Patent Expiration Dates: The patent US 8,501,712 is set to expire on February 16, 2027. Other related patents have expiration dates ranging from 2027 to 2030, which will impact the availability of generic versions of these drugs in the future[2].
Impact on Pharmaceutical Research
The issuance of this patent has significant implications for pharmaceutical research:
- Innovation: The patent encourages innovation by providing a framework for the development of new anti-inflammatory agents based on boron-containing small molecules.
- Therapeutic Options: It expands the therapeutic options available for treating inflammatory diseases, offering potential new treatments for conditions that have limited current therapies.
- Commercial Impact: The patent protects the intellectual property of Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc., allowing the company to commercialize these compounds and recoup their investment in research and development[4].
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
The legal and regulatory environment surrounding this patent is crucial:
- Patent Scope: The scope of the patent is defined by the claims, which are subject to scrutiny during the patent examination process. Narrower claims are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process[3].
- Patent Maintenance: The patent's validity and maintenance are subject to periodic payments and potential legal challenges. The patent's expiration date marks the end of the exclusive rights granted to the assignee[2].
Clinical and Preclinical Data
While the patent itself does not provide detailed clinical or preclinical data, it is implied that such data would be necessary to support the therapeutic claims:
- Efficacy and Safety: Clinical trials would be required to establish the efficacy and safety of these boron-containing small molecules in treating inflammatory conditions.
- Regulatory Approval: Regulatory bodies such as the FDA would need to review and approve these compounds before they can be marketed and used clinically[4].
Market and Commercial Considerations
The commercial potential of this patent is significant:
- Market Demand: The demand for effective anti-inflammatory treatments is high, given the prevalence of inflammatory diseases.
- Competitive Landscape: The patent provides Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. with a competitive edge in the market for anti-inflammatory drugs, at least until the patent expires[2].
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Compounds: The patent introduces boron-containing small molecules as a new class of anti-inflammatory agents.
- Broad Therapeutic Scope: It covers a wide range of inflammatory diseases, offering potential treatments for various conditions.
- Intellectual Property Protection: The patent protects the intellectual property of Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc., allowing for commercialization and recoupment of research investments.
- Regulatory and Clinical Implications: The patent's validity and the compounds' clinical efficacy are subject to regulatory scrutiny and clinical trials.
FAQs
What are the main claims of US Patent 8,501,712?
The main claims of US Patent 8,501,712 revolve around the use of boron-containing small molecules for treating anti-inflammatory conditions, including their chemical structures, synthesis methods, and pharmaceutical compositions.
Who are the inventors and assignees of this patent?
The inventors include Stephen J. Baker, Virginia Sanders, Tsutomu Akama, and others, with Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. as the assignee.
What is the scope of diseases covered by this patent?
The patent covers a wide range of inflammatory diseases, including arthritis, asthma, allergic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases.
When does the patent expire?
The patent is set to expire on February 16, 2027.
How does this patent impact pharmaceutical research?
It encourages innovation by providing a framework for developing new anti-inflammatory agents and expands therapeutic options for treating inflammatory diseases.
What are the implications for Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc.?
The patent protects the company's intellectual property, allowing for commercialization and recoupment of research investments, and provides a competitive edge in the market for anti-inflammatory drugs.
Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office - US 8,501,712 B2.
- Drugs.com - Generic Eucrisa Availability.
- Hoover Institution - Patent Claims and Patent Scope.
- Google Patents - US8501712B2 - Boron-containing small molecules as anti-inflammatory agents.
