United States Patent 9,126,932: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 9,126,932, titled "Substituted 1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopenta[b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid derivatives useful in the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders," is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical sector. This patent, assigned to Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc., covers a range of compounds and their applications, which are crucial for understanding its scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Patent Overview
Publication and Priority Dates
The patent was published on September 1, 2015, with a priority date of February 26, 2013[4].
Inventors and Assignees
The inventors listed on the patent include several researchers from Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc., which is also the assignee of the patent.
Scope of the Patent
Subject Matter
The patent pertains to specific derivatives of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopenta[b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid, which are designed for the treatment of various autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. These disorders include, but are not limited to, type 1 diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis, transplant rejections, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, acne vulgaris, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis[4].
Chemical Compounds
The patent describes several chemical compounds, each with specific structural features such as the presence of trifluoromethyl, benzyloxy, and other functional groups. These compounds are detailed in the claims and descriptions, highlighting their pharmacological properties and potential therapeutic uses[4].
Claims Analysis
Independent and Dependent Claims
The patent includes a series of independent and dependent claims that define the scope of the invention. Independent claims outline the broadest aspects of the invention, while dependent claims narrow down the scope by adding additional features or limitations.
- Independent Claims: These claims define the core compounds and their general structures, such as the substituted 1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopenta[b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid derivatives.
- Dependent Claims: These claims specify various substituents, functional groups, and other structural elements that can be present in the compounds, such as specific alkyl, alkoxy, or haloalkoxy groups[4].
Claim Coverage Matrix
To fully understand the claims, a Claim Coverage Matrix can be useful. This matrix categorizes the patents and claims by scope concepts, helping to identify which claims actively protect the intellectual property and where gaps or opportunities exist. This approach is particularly useful for managing large numbers of patent claims and ensuring comprehensive coverage of the technology intended to be protected[3].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape surrounding US 9,126,932 includes other patents and applications related to autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. For instance, other patents by Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc. may cover similar or complementary compounds, and there may be overlapping claims with other companies working in the same therapeutic area.
- Global Dossier: Using tools like the Global Dossier, one can access the file histories of related applications from participating IP Offices, including the IP5 Offices. This helps in understanding the broader patent family and any office actions or citations related to these applications[1].
International Patent Offices
To assess the global reach of this patent, it is essential to search international patent databases. Databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) offer insights into whether similar patents have been filed or granted in other countries[1].
Competitive Analysis
Market and Therapeutic Area
The therapeutic area covered by this patent is highly competitive, with multiple pharmaceutical companies developing treatments for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Understanding the competitive landscape involves analyzing the patents held by competitors, their claims, and the scope of their inventions.
- Patent Analytics: Tools like patent analytics can help in tracking patents by claims and scope concepts, identifying gaps in current coverage, and highlighting future design opportunities. This analytical approach ensures that the company's intellectual property is well-protected and aligned with its business strategies[3].
Legal Status and Expiration
Current Status
As of the current date, the legal status of the patent is active, but it is important to note that the legal status can change over time due to various factors such as maintenance fees, litigation, or expiration.
- Expiration Dates: The expiration date of the patent is crucial for understanding the timeline of protection. For US patents, the term is generally 20 years from the earliest filing date of the application that resulted in the patent[2].
Practical Applications and Future Directions
Therapeutic Uses
The compounds described in the patent have potential therapeutic uses in treating a range of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. The practical application involves further research and development to bring these compounds to market as effective treatments.
- Clinical Trials: The next steps would involve conducting clinical trials to test the efficacy and safety of these compounds. Success in these trials could lead to FDA approval and commercialization.
Future Design Opportunities
Using tools like Claim Charts, companies can identify areas where they do not have the necessary claim coverage and explore new design options. This proactive approach helps in maintaining a strong intellectual property position and staying ahead in the competitive market[3].
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent covers specific derivatives of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopenta[b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid for treating autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape that includes related patents and applications from other companies and international offices.
- Competitive Analysis: Understanding the competitive landscape is crucial for maintaining a strong intellectual property position.
- Legal Status: The patent is currently active, but its status can change over time.
- Practical Applications: The compounds have potential therapeutic uses and require further research and development.
FAQs
What is the main subject matter of US Patent 9,126,932?
The main subject matter of US Patent 9,126,932 is specific derivatives of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopenta[b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid designed for treating autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.
Who is the assignee of this patent?
The assignee of this patent is Arena Pharmaceuticals Inc.
What are some of the diseases targeted by the compounds described in this patent?
The compounds are intended to treat diseases such as type 1 diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriasis, among others.
How can one analyze the claims of this patent effectively?
Using a Claim Coverage Matrix and tools like Claim Charts can help in categorizing and analyzing the claims effectively, identifying gaps and opportunities in the intellectual property coverage.
Where can one find more information about the patent landscape related to this patent?
Tools like the Global Dossier and international patent databases such as those provided by the EPO, JPO, and WIPO can offer insights into the broader patent landscape.
Sources
- USPTO: "Search for patents - USPTO" - https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- PharmaCompass: "US Patent 9126932 | Expiration | Dates - PharmaCompass.com" - https://www.pharmacompass.com/us-patent-9126932
- SLWIP: "Patent Analytics | Intellectual Property Law" - https://www.slwip.com/services/patent-analytics/
- Google Patents: "US9126932B2 - Substituted 1,2,3,4-tetrahydrocyclopenta[b]indol-3-yl)acetic acid derivatives useful in the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders" - https://patents.google.com/patent/US9126932B2/en
