United States Patent 9,549,929: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 9,549,929, issued on January 24, 2017, is a significant patent in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the realm of Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors. This patent, assigned to Pfizer Inc., covers pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives and their use in pharmaceutical compositions.
Patent Overview
Inventors and Assignee
The patent was invented by a team of researchers including Matthew Frank Brown, Ashley Edward Fenwick, Mark Edward Flanagan, Andrea Gonzales, Timothy Allan Johnson, Neelu Kaila, Mark J. Mitton-Fry, Joseph Walter Strohbach, Ruth E. TenBrink, John David Trzupek, Rayomand Jal Unwalla, Michael L. Vazquez, and Mihir D. Parikh. Pfizer Inc. is the assignee of this patent[4].
Claims and Scope
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims are crucial as they outline the specific chemical structures, methods of use, and pharmaceutical compositions that are protected under the patent. The independent claims typically include detailed descriptions of the pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives, their synthesis, and their application as JAK inhibitors[4].
Dependent Claims
In addition to the independent claims, the patent also includes dependent claims that further specify and narrow down the scope of the invention. These claims often detail specific aspects of the compounds, such as particular substituents, dosages, and methods of administration.
Patent Scope Metrics
Independent Claim Length and Count
Research suggests that the scope of a patent can be measured using metrics such as independent claim length and independent claim count. Longer and more numerous independent claims generally indicate a broader patent scope. This patent, with its detailed and specific claims, suggests a well-defined but potentially broad scope in the area of JAK inhibitors[3].
Chemical Formulation and Synthesis
Pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine Derivatives
The patent describes the synthesis and purification of pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives. These compounds are purified using chromatography on silica gel with a gradient of dichloromethane and methanol. The detailed synthesis process ensures the production of high-purity compounds, which is critical for their use as pharmaceuticals[4].
Pharmaceutical Compositions and Use
JAK Inhibitors
The pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives covered by this patent are used as JAK inhibitors. JAK inhibitors are important in treating various inflammatory and autoimmune diseases by inhibiting the Janus kinase enzymes, which play a key role in the signaling pathways of cytokines and growth factors.
Patent Expiration Dates
Exclusive Rights
The patent was issued on January 24, 2017, and is set to expire on February 19, 2034. This period grants Pfizer Inc. exclusive rights to manufacture, use, and sell the described pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives as JAK inhibitors during this time[2].
Drug Exclusivity
FDA Exclusivity
In addition to patent protection, the FDA may grant exclusivity periods that can run concurrently with or independently of the patent term. These exclusivity periods can range from 180 days to seven years, depending on the circumstances of the drug's approval[2].
Related Patents and Publications
Other Patents by Pfizer Inc.
Pfizer Inc. has filed several related patents covering similar pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives and their use as JAK inhibitors. Patents such as US 9,035,074 and US 9,545,405 also describe these compounds and their pharmaceutical applications, indicating a robust patent strategy in this therapeutic area[2][4].
Impact on Innovation and Competition
Patent Quality and Innovation
The breadth and clarity of patent claims can significantly impact innovation and competition. Broad patents with unclear claims can lead to increased licensing and litigation costs, potentially diminishing incentives for further innovation. However, well-defined patents like US 9,549,929 can provide clear boundaries and encourage further research and development in related areas[3].
Generic Entry and Market Competition
No Generic Version Available
As of the current date, there is no generic version of the drugs covered by this patent available in the United States. This lack of generic competition ensures that Pfizer Inc. maintains market exclusivity for these JAK inhibitors until the patent expires in 2034[2].
Key Takeaways
- Patent Scope: The patent covers specific pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives and their use as JAK inhibitors.
- Claims: Detailed independent and dependent claims define the scope of the invention.
- Patent Expiration: The patent expires on February 19, 2034.
- Drug Exclusivity: FDA exclusivity periods may run concurrently with the patent term.
- Related Patents: Other patents by Pfizer Inc. cover similar compounds and applications.
- Impact on Innovation: Clear and well-defined patents can encourage further innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the main subject of United States Patent 9,549,929?
The main subject of this patent is pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidine derivatives and their use as Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors.
Who are the inventors of this patent?
The inventors include Matthew Frank Brown, Ashley Edward Fenwick, Mark Edward Flanagan, Andrea Gonzales, Timothy Allan Johnson, Neelu Kaila, Mark J. Mitton-Fry, Joseph Walter Strohbach, Ruth E. TenBrink, John David Trzupek, Rayomand Jal Unwalla, Michael L. Vazquez, and Mihir D. Parikh.
What is the expiration date of this patent?
The patent is set to expire on February 19, 2034.
Are there any generic versions of the drugs covered by this patent available?
No, there are currently no generic versions of the drugs covered by this patent available in the United States.
How does this patent impact innovation in the pharmaceutical industry?
This patent, with its clear and well-defined claims, can encourage further innovation by providing a clear boundary for what is protected and what areas are open for further research and development.
Cited Sources:
- United States Patent and Trademark Office - US11000513.pdf
- Drugs.com - Generic Cibinqo Availability
- Hoover Institution - Patent Claims and Patent Scope
- United States Patent and Trademark Office - US9549929.pdf
- DrugPatentWatch - Patent 9,549,929 Claims and Expiration
