United States Patent 8,580,781: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 8,580,781, titled "Pyridazinone derivatives," is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the field of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This patent, assigned to Merck Patent GmbH, protects compounds that are inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, such as Met kinase, and are used in the treatment of tumors. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this patent.
Patent Overview
Patent Number and Date
The patent number is US 8,580,781 B2, and it was granted on November 12, 2013[4].
Inventors and Assignee
The inventors listed are Dieter Dorsch, Frank Stieber, Oliver Schadt, and Andree Blaukat, all from Germany. The assignee is Merck Patent GmbH, Darmstadt, Germany[4].
Claims
The patent includes 29 claims, which are crucial for understanding the scope of protection. These claims describe compounds of a specific formula, their use as inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, and their application in treating tumors[4].
Scope of the Patent
Chemical Compounds
The patent protects pyridazinone derivatives, which are compounds of a specific chemical structure. These compounds are defined by their molecular formula and the specific groups attached to the pyridazinone core. The claims are detailed enough to cover a range of derivatives but narrow enough to ensure that the protected compounds have the desired pharmacological properties[4].
Therapeutic Use
The primary therapeutic use of these compounds is as inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, particularly Met kinase. Tyrosine kinases are enzymes involved in the activation of many proteins by signal transduction cascades. Inhibiting these enzymes can be crucial in treating various cancers and other diseases where tyrosine kinase activity is aberrant[4].
Claim Structure
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes both independent and dependent claims. Independent claims define the broad scope of the invention, while dependent claims narrow down the scope by adding additional features or limitations. For example, Claim 1 might describe the general structure of the pyridazinone derivatives, while subsequent claims might specify particular substituents or their arrangements[4].
Claim Length and Count
Research has shown that the length and count of independent claims can be indicative of the patent's scope and quality. Narrower claims with fewer words and fewer claims overall tend to have a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process. In the case of US 8,580,781, the 29 claims suggest a detailed and specific protection of the invention, which is consistent with the need for precise definitions in pharmaceutical patents[3].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent landscape around US 8,580,781 includes other patents related to tyrosine kinase inhibitors and pyridazinone derivatives. For instance, other patents filed by Merck or other companies may protect similar compounds or different aspects of their use. The references cited in the patent, such as U.S. Patent Documents 6,242,461 and 6,403,586, indicate a rich background of research in this area[4].
Expiration and Maintenance
The patent term for US 8,580,781 is extended or adjusted under 35 U.S.C. 154(b) by 683 days. This adjustment is common due to delays in the regulatory approval process. The patent is set to expire in 2030, considering the standard 20-year term from the filing date and the extension[4].
Regulatory and Litigation Aspects
Patents like US 8,580,781 are subject to regulatory reviews and potential litigation. The payment of maintenance fees, as seen in the patent's history, is crucial for keeping the patent in force. Letters from the FDA or other regulatory agencies regarding the patent term extension or other regulatory matters are also part of the patent's lifecycle[2].
Impact on Innovation
Patent Quality and Scope
The debate over patent quality often revolves around the breadth and clarity of patent claims. Patents with overly broad claims can stifle innovation by increasing licensing and litigation costs. However, patents like US 8,580,781, which have well-defined and specific claims, can actually promote innovation by providing clear boundaries and incentives for further research and development[3].
Forward Citations
Forward citations, which are citations to the patent in later patents, can indicate the impact and relevance of the patent. A high number of forward citations suggests that the patent is influential in its field and has contributed significantly to subsequent innovations[3].
Conclusion
The United States Patent 8,580,781 is a critical patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Its detailed claims and specific scope ensure that the protected compounds are well-defined and useful for treating tumors. Understanding the patent's claims, scope, and place within the broader patent landscape is essential for both researchers and industry professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Number and Date: US 8,580,781 B2, granted on November 12, 2013.
- Inventors and Assignee: Dieter Dorsch, Frank Stieber, Oliver Schadt, Andree Blaukat, and Merck Patent GmbH.
- Claims: 29 claims defining pyridazinone derivatives and their use as tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
- Therapeutic Use: Inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, particularly Met kinase, for treating tumors.
- Patent Landscape: Part of a broader landscape including related patents and regulatory reviews.
- Expiration and Maintenance: Set to expire in 2030 with adjustments for regulatory delays.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary therapeutic use of the compounds protected by US 8,580,781?
A: The primary therapeutic use is as inhibitors of tyrosine kinases, particularly Met kinase, for treating tumors.
Q: Who are the inventors of US 8,580,781?
A: The inventors are Dieter Dorsch, Frank Stieber, Oliver Schadt, and Andree Blaukat.
Q: What is the assignee of US 8,580,781?
A: The assignee is Merck Patent GmbH, Darmstadt, Germany.
Q: How many claims are included in US 8,580,781?
A: The patent includes 29 claims.
Q: When is US 8,580,781 set to expire?
A: The patent is set to expire in 2030, considering the standard 20-year term and adjustments.
Sources
- United States Patent 8,580,781 B2 - Pyridazinone derivatives.
- Pharsight - Tepmetko patent expiration.
- SSRN - Patent Claims and Patent Scope.
- Google Patents - US 8,580,781 B2.
