United States Patent 9,487,530: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
The United States Patent 9,487,530, titled "Transient protection of normal cells during chemotherapy," is a significant invention in the field of medical science, particularly in the area of cancer treatment. This patent, issued to protect innovative compounds, compositions, and methods, is crucial for understanding how to safeguard healthy cells during chemotherapy. Here, we will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Details
- Publication Number: US9487530B2
- Authority: United States
- Prior Art Date: The patent builds upon earlier research and inventions related to chemotherapeutic agents and cell protection[4].
Invention Summary
The patent describes improved compounds, compositions, and methods for transiently protecting healthy cells, particularly hematopoietic stem cells, during chemotherapy. This protection is achieved through specific chemical compounds and methods that mitigate the harmful effects of chemotherapeutic agents on normal cells.
Scope of the Invention
Protected Subject Matter
The invention focuses on several key areas:
- Compounds: The patent details specific chemical compounds designed to protect normal cells from the adverse effects of chemotherapy. These compounds include derivatives and formulations that target cell protection mechanisms[4].
- Compositions: The patent covers various compositions that incorporate these protective compounds, ensuring their effective delivery and action during chemotherapy.
- Methods: The methods described involve administering these compounds and compositions to patients undergoing chemotherapy, thereby protecting healthy cells from damage.
Technical Details
The patent includes detailed descriptions of the chemical structures of the compounds, their synthesis methods, and the therapeutic effects they produce. For example, the patent mentions compounds like topotecan and other chemotherapeutic agents, along with their interactions with cellular mechanisms[4].
Claims Analysis
Claim Structure
The patent contains multiple claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims can be categorized into several types:
- Independent Claims: These claims stand alone and define the broadest scope of the invention. For example, Claim 1 might describe the general method of protecting normal cells using a specific compound.
- Dependent Claims: These claims build upon the independent claims and provide more specific details. For instance, a dependent claim might specify the dosage or administration method of the protective compound[4].
Key Claim Elements
- Compound Claims: These claims detail the chemical structure and composition of the protective compounds.
- Method Claims: These claims outline the procedures for administering the compounds and compositions to achieve the desired protective effects.
- Use Claims: These claims specify the therapeutic uses of the invention, such as protecting hematopoietic stem cells during chemotherapy.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape surrounding US9487530B2 includes other patents and applications related to cell protection during chemotherapy. These can be identified through tools like the USPTO's Global Dossier and Common Citation Document (CCD), which provide access to related applications and citation data from participating IP offices[1].
Competing Technologies
Other patents and research in the field of cancer treatment and cell protection are part of the broader patent landscape. For example, inventions related to targeted therapies, stem cell protection, and novel chemotherapeutic agents are relevant. Analyzing these competing technologies can help in understanding the unique value and positioning of US9487530B2[3].
Litigation and Enforcement
Patents like US9487530B2 can be involved in litigation to enforce their claims against potential infringers. The legal framework, including the Alice test for patent eligibility and claim construction orders, plays a crucial role in determining the validity and enforceability of such patents[5].
Patent Analytics and Strategy
Claim Coverage Matrix
To fully understand the protection offered by US9487530B2, a Claim Coverage Matrix can be used. This tool categorizes patents and claims by scope concepts, helping to identify gaps or opportunities in the patent coverage. This is particularly useful for companies with extensive patent portfolios to ensure their intellectual property is adequately protected[3].
Interactive Claim Charts
Interactive claim charts generated by tools like ClaimScape® can help technical experts and management review the patent coverage. These charts facilitate the identification of areas where claim coverage is lacking and highlight future design opportunities[3].
Industry Impact
Therapeutic Applications
The invention protected by US9487530B2 has significant therapeutic applications. By transiently protecting normal cells during chemotherapy, it can improve patient outcomes and reduce the side effects associated with cancer treatment.
Economic Impact
The economic impact of this patent can be substantial, given the high value of innovations in cancer treatment. Companies holding such patents can leverage them to develop new products, secure licensing agreements, and protect their market share.
Regulatory and Legal Considerations
Patent Eligibility
The patentability of inventions like US9487530B2 is subject to legal scrutiny, particularly under Section 101 of the Patent Act. The Alice test is often applied to determine whether the claims are directed to abstract ideas or natural phenomena, which are not patentable[5].
International Harmonization
The global patent system, facilitated by tools like the Global Dossier and Common Citation Document, ensures that patent applications and grants are harmonized across different jurisdictions. This harmonization is crucial for protecting intellectual property rights internationally[1].
Key Takeaways
- Invention Scope: The patent protects compounds, compositions, and methods for transiently protecting healthy cells during chemotherapy.
- Claims Analysis: The patent includes independent and dependent claims that define the scope of the invention, including compound, method, and use claims.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape that includes related patents, competing technologies, and legal considerations.
- Patent Analytics: Tools like Claim Coverage Matrix and interactive claim charts are essential for understanding and managing the patent portfolio.
- Industry Impact: The invention has significant therapeutic and economic implications in the field of cancer treatment.
FAQs
What is the primary focus of United States Patent 9,487,530?
The primary focus of US9487530B2 is on compounds, compositions, and methods for transiently protecting healthy cells, particularly hematopoietic stem cells, during chemotherapy.
How does the patent protect normal cells during chemotherapy?
The patent describes specific chemical compounds and methods that mitigate the harmful effects of chemotherapeutic agents on normal cells, ensuring their protection during treatment.
What tools can be used to analyze the patent landscape of US9487530B2?
Tools such as the USPTO's Global Dossier, Common Citation Document (CCD), and patent analytics software like ClaimScape® can be used to analyze the patent landscape.
What is the significance of the Alice test in patent eligibility?
The Alice test is a two-step process used to determine whether patent claims are directed to abstract ideas or natural phenomena, which are not patentable under Section 101 of the Patent Act.
How can companies leverage patents like US9487530B2?
Companies can leverage such patents to develop new products, secure licensing agreements, protect their market share, and improve patient outcomes in the field of cancer treatment.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court: https://www.acus.gov/research-projects/us-patent-small-claims-court
- SLWIP - Patent Analytics: https://www.slwip.com/services/patent-analytics/
- Google Patents - US9487530B2: https://patents.google.com/patent/US9487530B2/en
- CAFC - CONTOUR IP HOLDING LLC v. GOPRO, INC.: https://cafc.uscourts.gov/opinions-orders/22-1654.OPINION.9-9-2024_2381170.pdf
