United States Patent 9,611,283: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
United States Patent 9,611,283, titled "Methods for inhibiting cell proliferation in ALK-driven cancers," is a significant patent in the field of oncology, particularly focusing on the treatment of cancers driven by the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene. This patent, issued to a group of inventors, outlines novel methods for treating patients with ALK-driven cancers that have become refractory to existing treatments.
Background
ALK-driven cancers are a subset of cancers that are characterized by the abnormal expression or mutation of the ALK gene. These cancers can be particularly aggressive and are often treated with targeted therapies such as crizotinib. However, resistance to these treatments can develop, necessitating new therapeutic approaches.
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers methods for inhibiting cell proliferation in ALK-driven cancers, specifically addressing the issue of resistance to current treatments like crizotinib.
Key Claims
- Method of Treatment: The patent claims a method for treating patients who have an ALK-driven cancer that is refractory to one or more of crizotinib or other ALK inhibitors. This method involves administering a specific compound or a combination of compounds that target the ALK pathway in a way that overcomes resistance[4].
Compounds and Compositions
- Chemical Structures: The patent describes specific chemical compounds and their structures, including detailed descriptions of amino acid sequences, heterocyclic rings, and other chemical groups. These compounds are designed to inhibit ALK activity effectively, even in cases where the cancer has developed resistance to other treatments[4].
Therapeutic Applications
- Cancer Types: The methods described in the patent are applicable to various types of ALK-driven cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphomas and other solid tumors. The patent highlights the efficacy of these methods in treating cancers that have become resistant to standard ALK inhibitors[4].
Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
- The patent includes several independent claims that outline the core methods and compounds involved in the treatment. These claims are crucial as they define the scope of protection for the invention.
Dependent Claims
- Dependent claims further elaborate on the independent claims by specifying additional details such as the dosage, administration route, and specific combinations of compounds. These claims help to narrow down the scope and provide a clearer understanding of the invention's applicability[4].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
- The patent references prior art related to ALK inhibitors and their use in treating cancers. It acknowledges the existence of crizotinib and other ALK inhibitors but highlights the need for new methods to overcome resistance to these treatments[4].
International Context
- The patent is part of a broader global effort to develop targeted therapies for cancer. Similar patents and research are being conducted in other countries, and this patent contributes to the international landscape by providing novel solutions for a specific challenge in cancer treatment.
Related Patents and Applications
- Other patents, such as those related to the EML4-ALK fusion gene, also address aspects of ALK-driven cancers. These patents, like US-20130158095-A1, complement the current patent by providing additional insights into the genetic mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets[5].
Search and Analysis Tools
For researchers and inventors looking to understand the patent landscape around ALK-driven cancers, several tools are available:
USPTO Resources
- The USPTO's Patent Public Search tool and the Global Dossier service can be used to search for related patents and applications. These tools provide access to prior art, patent family information, and office actions, which are crucial for understanding the patent landscape[1].
International Databases
- Databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan Patent Office (JPO), and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) offer global perspectives on patent filings related to ALK-driven cancers[1].
Economic and Research Implications
Patent Assignment and Ownership
- The USPTO's Patent Assignment Search and the Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) can provide insights into the ownership and assignment of patents related to ALK-driven cancers. This information is vital for understanding the economic and research dynamics in this field[1].
Claims Data and Statistics
- The USPTO's claims data, available in formats such as Stata and MS Excel, can be used to analyze the scope and trends in patent filings related to cancer treatments. This data helps researchers and economists understand the patent landscape and its evolution over time[3].
Conclusion
United States Patent 9,611,283 represents a significant advancement in the treatment of ALK-driven cancers, particularly for patients who have developed resistance to existing therapies. The patent's scope and claims are carefully defined to protect the novel methods and compounds described.
Key Takeaways
- Novel Methods: The patent introduces new methods for treating ALK-driven cancers that are refractory to current treatments.
- Specific Compounds: Detailed chemical structures and compositions are described to inhibit ALK activity effectively.
- Therapeutic Applications: The methods are applicable to various types of ALK-driven cancers.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader global effort to develop targeted cancer therapies.
- Research and Economic Implications: The patent has significant implications for research and economic dynamics in the field of oncology.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary focus of United States Patent 9,611,283?
A: The primary focus is on methods for inhibiting cell proliferation in ALK-driven cancers that have become refractory to existing treatments like crizotinib.
Q: What types of cancers are targeted by this patent?
A: The patent targets various types of ALK-driven cancers, including non-Hodgkin lymphomas and other solid tumors.
Q: How does this patent differ from prior art?
A: This patent differs by providing novel methods and compounds that overcome resistance to existing ALK inhibitors.
Q: What tools can be used to search for related patents?
A: Tools such as the USPTO's Patent Public Search, Global Dossier, and international databases like EPO and WIPO can be used.
Q: What economic implications does this patent have?
A: The patent has significant economic implications for the development and ownership of cancer treatments, as well as for research funding and collaborations in the field of oncology.
