United States Patent 9,127,276: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 9,127,276, titled "Conjugated antisense compounds and their use," is a significant patent in the field of biotechnology, particularly in the area of antisense therapy. This patent, assigned to Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., describes novel oligomeric compounds and their applications. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background and Motivation
Antisense therapy is a promising approach in treating various diseases by targeting specific RNA sequences. The motivation behind this patent is to develop conjugated antisense compounds that enhance the delivery, stability, and efficacy of these therapeutic agents.
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers a range of oligomeric compounds, specifically those that are conjugated to various groups to improve their therapeutic properties. Here are the key aspects of the scope:
Conjugated Antisense Compounds
The patent describes oligomeric compounds that are conjugated to N-Acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) or other conjugate groups. These conjugations are designed to enhance the uptake of the antisense compounds by target cells, particularly hepatocytes[4].
Chemical Structure and Composition
The claims detail the chemical structure of these compounds, including the types of nucleosides, nucleotides, and conjugate groups used. For example, the patent mentions the use of nucleoside derivatives, amides, esters, and other chemical classes[4].
Therapeutic Applications
The patent outlines the therapeutic use of these conjugated antisense compounds in treating various diseases, including those related to the liver and other tissues. The compounds are designed to modulate gene expression by binding to specific RNA targets.
Claims Analysis
The claims of the patent are crucial in defining the scope of protection. Here is a breakdown of the key claims:
Independent Claims
- Claim 1 describes the general structure of the conjugated antisense compounds, including the type of conjugate group and the oligomeric backbone.
- Claim 10 specifies the use of these compounds for treating diseases by modulating gene expression[4].
Dependent Claims
- Dependent claims further narrow down the scope by specifying particular types of conjugate groups, such as GalNAc, and specific nucleoside modifications.
- These claims also cover various methods of administration and treatment protocols[4].
Patent Landscape
Understanding the patent landscape is essential for navigating the intellectual property rights in this field.
Related Patents
- Other patents in the same family or by the same assignee often cover related aspects of antisense therapy. For example, WO2018067900A1 describes methods for synthesizing conjugated oligomeric compounds, which complements the subject matter of US9127276B2[5].
Competitors and Collaborators
- Companies like Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., and other biotech firms are actively involved in developing antisense therapies. The patent landscape includes patents from these entities that may overlap or complement the subject patent.
Litigation and Enforcement
- Patents in the biotech sector are often subject to litigation. For instance, disputes over patent validity, infringement, or obviousness-type double patenting (ODP) can arise, as seen in cases like In re Cellect LLC[1].
Economic and Market Impact
The economic and market impact of this patent is significant:
Market Dominance
- Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., with patents like US9127276B2, holds a strong position in the antisense therapy market. This patent portfolio allows the company to protect its innovations and maintain market dominance.
Financial Implications
- The financial implications of holding such patents are substantial. Companies can generate revenue through licensing, royalties, and direct sales of therapeutic products based on these patents. For example, Ionis Pharmaceuticals reports significant assets and revenues related to its patent portfolio[2].
Research and Development
The patent also reflects the ongoing research and development in the field:
Dataset and Research Tools
- Datasets like the Patent Claims Research Dataset provided by the USPTO can help analyze trends and scope in patent claims, including those related to antisense therapy. These tools are invaluable for researchers and patent analysts[3].
Expert Insights
- Industry experts emphasize the importance of robust patent protection in biotechnology. As noted by Alan C. Marco and Joshua D. Sarnoff, "Patent claims and patent scope are critical in defining the boundaries of intellectual property rights"[3].
Key Takeaways
- Conjugated Antisense Compounds: The patent covers novel oligomeric compounds conjugated to groups like GalNAc, enhancing their therapeutic efficacy.
- Therapeutic Applications: These compounds are designed to treat diseases by modulating gene expression.
- Claims Analysis: The patent includes independent and dependent claims that define the scope of protection.
- Patent Landscape: The landscape includes related patents, competitors, and potential litigation.
- Economic Impact: The patent contributes to Ionis Pharmaceuticals' market dominance and financial stability.
FAQs
What is the main subject matter of US Patent 9,127,276?
The main subject matter is conjugated antisense compounds and their use in treating diseases.
What is the significance of GalNAc conjugation in this patent?
GalNAc conjugation enhances the uptake of antisense compounds by target cells, particularly hepatocytes.
How does this patent fit into the broader patent landscape of antisense therapy?
It is part of a larger portfolio of patents related to antisense therapy, including synthesis methods and other therapeutic applications.
What are the potential economic implications of this patent?
The patent can generate significant revenue through licensing, royalties, and direct sales, contributing to the company's market dominance.
How can researchers and analysts use datasets like the Patent Claims Research Dataset in relation to this patent?
These datasets can help analyze trends and scope in patent claims, providing insights into the intellectual property landscape of antisense therapy.
