Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 8,895,601
Introduction
United States Patent 8,895,601, titled "Pyrazolyl Quinoxaline Kinase Inhibitors," is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the field of cancer treatment. This patent, granted on November 25, 2014, covers new quinoxaline derivative compounds, their pharmaceutical compositions, preparation processes, and their use in treating diseases such as cancer.
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by a team of researchers including Gordon Saxty, Christopher William Murray, Valerio Berdini, Gilbert Ebai Besong, Christopher Charles Frederick Hamlett, Christopher Norbert Johnson, and Steven John Woodhead. The patent is assigned to various entities, reflecting the collaborative nature of the research[1][4].
Scope of the Invention
The patent encompasses several key aspects:
Compounds
The invention includes new quinoxaline derivative compounds, specifically those of the formula (I), which includes various substitutions and modifications. These compounds are designed to inhibit kinases, enzymes that play crucial roles in cellular signaling pathways, often implicated in cancer[1][4].
Pharmaceutical Compositions
The patent covers pharmaceutical compositions that include these quinoxaline derivative compounds. These compositions can be formulated in various ways to enhance their therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability[1][4].
Preparation Processes
The patent details processes for the preparation of these compounds, which is essential for their synthesis and scaling up for clinical use[1][4].
Therapeutic Use
The primary use of these compounds is in the treatment of diseases, with a particular focus on cancer. The inhibition of kinases by these compounds can help in controlling the proliferation of cancer cells[1][4].
Claim Structure
The patent claims are structured to define the scope of the invention clearly. Here are some key points:
Independent Claims
The patent includes independent claims that define the core aspects of the invention, such as the chemical structure of the compounds, their pharmaceutical compositions, and their therapeutic uses. These claims are crucial in determining the patent's scope and validity[1][4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the independent claims by adding additional limitations or features. These claims help in narrowing down the scope and ensuring that the patent covers specific embodiments of the invention[1][4].
Patent Scope Metrics
To analyze the scope of this patent, metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count can be used. These metrics are important in assessing patent quality and scope, as discussed in the context of patent examination processes[3].
Independent Claim Length
Longer independent claims often indicate a narrower scope, as they specify more details about the invention. In the case of US 8,895,601, the independent claims are detailed, suggesting a well-defined scope[3].
Independent Claim Count
The number of independent claims can also indicate the breadth of the patent. A higher number of independent claims may suggest a broader scope, but in this case, the claims are focused on specific compounds and their uses, indicating a targeted scope[3].
Patent Examination Process
The examination process for this patent would have involved a thorough review of the claims to ensure they are clear, concise, and not overly broad. The process tends to narrow the scope of patent claims, especially when the examination duration is longer. This ensures that the granted patent has a well-defined and valid scope[3].
Prior Art and References
The patent cites several prior art references, including other patents and publications related to quinoxaline derivatives and kinase inhibitors. These references help in establishing the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention[1][4].
Therapeutic Implications
The compounds described in this patent have significant therapeutic implications, particularly in the treatment of cancer. Kinase inhibitors are a class of drugs that have shown promise in targeting specific molecular pathways involved in cancer progression[1][4].
Commercial and Regulatory Aspects
The patent's commercial and regulatory aspects are crucial. The expiration of this patent can impact the entry of generic versions of these drugs into the market. As of the current date, the patent has expired, allowing for potential generic competition[5].
Key Takeaways
- Compounds and Compositions: The patent covers new quinoxaline derivative compounds and their pharmaceutical compositions.
- Therapeutic Use: The primary use is in the treatment of diseases, particularly cancer.
- Claim Structure: Independent and dependent claims define the scope of the invention.
- Patent Scope Metrics: Independent claim length and count are important in assessing the patent's scope.
- Examination Process: The process ensures the claims are clear and valid.
- Therapeutic Implications: The compounds are significant in cancer treatment.
- Commercial and Regulatory Aspects: The patent's expiration affects generic competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main focus of United States Patent 8,895,601?
A: The main focus is on new quinoxaline derivative compounds as kinase inhibitors for treating diseases like cancer.
Q: Who are the inventors of this patent?
A: The inventors include Gordon Saxty, Christopher William Murray, Valerio Berdini, Gilbert Ebai Besong, Christopher Charles Frederick Hamlett, Christopher Norbert Johnson, and Steven John Woodhead.
Q: What are the key aspects covered by the patent claims?
A: The claims cover the chemical structure of the compounds, their pharmaceutical compositions, preparation processes, and therapeutic uses.
Q: How is the scope of the patent measured?
A: Metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count are used to measure the patent's scope.
Q: What is the current status of the patent?
A: As of the current date, the patent has expired, allowing for potential generic competition.
Cited Sources
- United States Patent and Trademark Office, "Pyrazolyl Quinoxaline Kinase Inhibitors," US 8,895,601 B2, November 25, 2014.
- Google Patents, "US8895601B2 - Pyrazolyl quinoxaline kinase inhibitors."
- Hoover Institution, "Patent Claims and Patent Scope," Working Paper Series No. 16001, August 18, 2016.
- Google Patents, "US8895601B2 - Pyrazolyl quinoxaline kinase inhibitors."
- Drug Patent Watch, "Pharmaceutical drugs covered by patent 8,895,601."
