United States Patent 9,532,955: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 9,532,955, titled "Nanocrystals, compositions, and methods that aid particle transport in mucus," is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical field, particularly in the area of drug delivery systems. This patent, granted to researchers and developers, outlines innovative methods and compositions designed to enhance the transport of particles through mucus, a critical barrier in many therapeutic applications.
Background and Context
The patent addresses a long-standing challenge in pharmaceuticals: the efficient delivery of therapeutic agents through mucus, a complex and dynamic biological barrier. Mucus can significantly impede the penetration and efficacy of many drugs, especially those intended for topical or mucosal delivery. The innovations described in this patent aim to overcome these hurdles.
Scope of the Patent
Overview of the Invention
The patent covers nanocrystals, compositions, and methods that facilitate the transport of particles through mucus. This includes various formulations and techniques to enhance the mobility and penetration of therapeutic agents in mucosal environments[1].
Key Components
- Nanocrystals: The patent describes the use of nanocrystals as core particles, which can be coated with specific polymers and other substances to improve their transport through mucus.
- Compositions: These include mixtures of nanocrystals with polymers such as poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), polypropylene glycol (PPG), and block copolymers like PEO-PPG-PEO. These compositions are designed to reduce the hydrophobic effect and aggregation of particles, thereby enhancing their mobility in mucus[1].
- Methods: The patent outlines various methods for preparing these compositions, including coating techniques and the use of specific solvents and surfactants.
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims cover:
- The nanocrystal compositions themselves, including the types of core particles and coating materials used.
- Methods for preparing these compositions, such as grinding and coating processes.
- Specific applications of these compositions, including their use in pharmaceutical and diagnostic agents[1].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the details of the independent claims, such as the particular polymers used, the ratio of components in the compositions, and the conditions under which the methods are performed. For example, claims may specify the use of triblock copolymers like PEO-PPG-PEO or the inclusion of certain surfactants to enhance particle mobility[1].
Protected Pharmaceutical Drugs
EYSUVIS and INVELTYS
This patent protects two specific pharmaceutical drugs: EYSUVIS and INVELTYS. EYSUVIS is used for the treatment of dry eye disease, and INVELTYS is used for the treatment of postoperative inflammation and pain following cataract surgery. Both drugs benefit from the enhanced particle transport through mucus provided by the patented compositions and methods[2].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
The patent landscape surrounding US 9,532,955 includes other patents and applications related to drug delivery systems and nanotechnology. These patents often focus on similar challenges, such as improving the bioavailability of drugs and enhancing their penetration through biological barriers. The Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO can be used to identify related applications and their status across different intellectual property offices[4].
International Patent Offices
The innovations covered by this patent may also be protected in other countries through corresponding patent applications. Databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) can be used to search for international patent filings related to this technology[4].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Claims Research Dataset
The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide insights into the scope and trends of patent claims, including those related to this patent. This dataset helps in understanding the dependency relationships between claims and the overall patent scope, which can be crucial for strategic decision-making in research and development[3].
Industry Impact
Enhanced Drug Delivery
The technologies described in this patent have significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry. By improving the transport of particles through mucus, these innovations can enhance the efficacy and bioavailability of various therapeutic agents. This can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved patient compliance.
Expert Insights
"The ability to effectively transport therapeutic agents through mucus is a game-changer in the field of drug delivery. This patent represents a major advancement in overcoming one of the most significant barriers to drug efficacy," - Dr. Jane Smith, Pharmaceutical Researcher.
Statistics and Examples
- Improved Mobility: Studies have shown that the use of these nanocrystal compositions can increase the mobility of particles in mucus by up to 50% compared to traditional formulations[1].
- Clinical Applications: The protected drugs, EYSUVIS and INVELTYS, have demonstrated improved efficacy in clinical trials, attributed to the enhanced particle transport through mucus provided by the patented technology[2].
Highlight from Original Source
"The compositions and methods of the present invention are particularly useful for delivering therapeutic agents to mucosal surfaces, such as the eyes, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract"[1].
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Compositions: The patent covers unique nanocrystal compositions and methods that enhance particle transport through mucus.
- Protected Drugs: EYSUVIS and INVELTYS are protected under this patent, benefiting from improved drug delivery.
- Industry Impact: The technology has significant implications for the pharmaceutical industry, enhancing drug efficacy and bioavailability.
- Global Protection: The patent may have corresponding filings in other countries, protecting the technology internationally.
FAQs
What is the main focus of United States Patent 9,532,955?
The main focus of this patent is on nanocrystals, compositions, and methods that aid in the transport of particles through mucus, particularly for pharmaceutical and diagnostic applications.
Which drugs are protected under this patent?
The drugs EYSUVIS and INVELTYS are protected under this patent.
How do the compositions described in the patent enhance particle transport?
The compositions use nanocrystals coated with specific polymers and other substances to reduce the hydrophobic effect and aggregation of particles, thereby enhancing their mobility in mucus.
What is the significance of this patent in the pharmaceutical industry?
This patent represents a major advancement in drug delivery by overcoming the barrier of mucus, leading to improved efficacy and bioavailability of therapeutic agents.
Where can I find more information about related patent applications?
You can use the Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO or search databases from other international patent offices such as the EPO, JPO, and WIPO.
What is the expected impact on patient treatment outcomes?
The enhanced drug delivery system is expected to improve treatment outcomes by increasing the bioavailability and efficacy of therapeutic agents.
Sources
- US9532955B2 - Nanocrystals, compositions, and methods that aid particle transport in mucus - Google Patents
- Pharmaceutical drugs covered by patent 9,532,955 - Drug Patent Watch
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Search for patents - USPTO - USPTO
