Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 8,785,632
Introduction
United States Patent 8,785,632, titled "Enantiomerically Pure Aminoheteroaryl Compounds as Protein Kinase Inhibitors," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of cancer treatments. Here, we will delve into the details of this patent, including its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Background of the Patent
This patent, issued on July 22, 2014, is a continuation of earlier applications and is assigned to Agouron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Pfizer Inc.[1][4].
Scope of the Patent
The patent focuses on novel chemical compounds, specifically enantiomerically pure aminoheteroaryl compounds, such as aminopyridines and aminopyrazines. These compounds are designed to inhibit protein tyrosine kinases, which are enzymes involved in the regulation of cell growth and division. The preferred compounds are c-Met inhibitors, which are useful for treating abnormal cell growth, including various types of cancers[1][4].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Compound Claims: The patent claims enantiomerically pure aminoheteroaryl compounds of specific formulas, highlighting their structural characteristics and stereochemistry[1][4].
- Synthesis Methods: It includes methods for synthesizing these compounds, detailing the chemical reactions and conditions necessary to produce them[1][4].
- Use Claims: The patent claims the use of these compounds as inhibitors of protein tyrosine kinases, particularly c-Met, for the treatment of cancers and other diseases related to abnormal cell growth[1][4].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
The patent is part of a larger family of patents related to protein kinase inhibitors. Other relevant patents include:
- Patent 7,230,098: This patent, also related to c-Met inhibitors, is set to expire on August 26, 2025[2][5].
- Patent 7,825,137: Another patent in this series, it is scheduled to expire on May 12, 2027[2][5].
- Patent 7,858,643: This patent, which claims the benefit of earlier applications, will expire on October 8, 2029[2][5].
- Patent 8,217,057: This patent, issued to Cui Jingrong Jean and Tran-Dubé Michelle Bich, is related to polymorphs of a c-MET/HGFR inhibitor and is set to expire on November 6, 2029[2][5].
Expiration Dates
The patent US 8,785,632 is scheduled to expire on March 1, 2025. This expiration date is crucial as it will allow generic versions of the drug to enter the market, potentially reducing costs and increasing accessibility[5].
Impact on Pharmaceutical Industry
Innovation and Competition
The expiration of this patent and related ones will open up the market for generic competitors, which can lead to increased competition and potentially lower drug prices. However, it also means that the original patent holders will lose their exclusive rights to manufacture and sell these drugs, which could impact their revenue streams[5].
Licensing and Litigation
The scope and claims of this patent, as well as its expiration, can influence licensing agreements and litigation. Broader claims might lead to more complex licensing negotiations and higher litigation costs, while narrower claims could simplify these processes[3].
Metrics for Measuring Patent Scope
Research has shown that the scope of a patent can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count. These metrics can help in understanding the breadth and clarity of the patent claims, which in turn can affect the patent's validity and the incentives for innovation[3].
Conclusion
United States Patent 8,785,632 is a critical patent in the field of cancer treatment, focusing on enantiomerically pure aminoheteroaryl compounds as protein kinase inhibitors. Understanding its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape is essential for pharmaceutical companies, researchers, and policymakers.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers specific chemical compounds and their use as c-Met inhibitors.
- Claims: It includes claims for the compounds, their synthesis, and their use in treating cancers.
- Expiration Date: The patent is set to expire on March 1, 2025.
- Impact: The expiration will open the market to generic competitors, affecting competition and pricing.
- Metrics: Independent claim length and count can measure the patent's scope and impact on innovation.
FAQs
Q: What is the main focus of United States Patent 8,785,632?
A: The patent focuses on enantiomerically pure aminoheteroaryl compounds as protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors, particularly c-Met inhibitors for cancer treatment.
Q: Who are the assignees of this patent?
A: The patent is assigned to Agouron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and Pfizer Inc.
Q: When is the patent set to expire?
A: The patent is scheduled to expire on March 1, 2025.
Q: What are the implications of the patent's expiration?
A: The expiration will allow generic versions of the drug to enter the market, potentially reducing costs and increasing accessibility.
Q: How can the scope of a patent be measured?
A: The scope can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count.
Sources
- US8785632B2 - Enantiomerically pure aminoheteroaryl compounds as protein kinase inhibitors - Google Patents
- Generic Xalkori Availability - Drugs.com
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- US8785632B2 - Enantiomerically pure aminoheteroaryl compounds as protein kinase inhibitors - Google Patents
- List - 65 Drug Patents Expiring in 2025 - GreyB
