United States Patent 9,630,955: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 9,630,955, titled "Chemical compound useful as intermediate for preparing a catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitor," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. This patent, granted to BIAL—PORTELA & CA, S.A., discloses a methylated intermediate that can be demethylated to produce an inhibitor of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), an enzyme involved in the metabolism of catecholamines.
Background and Context
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. COMT inhibitors are crucial in the management of Parkinson's disease as they help in increasing the availability of dopamine by preventing its breakdown. The patent in question addresses the need for effective COMT inhibitors by providing a novel intermediate compound.
Inventors and Assignees
The patent was invented by a team of researchers including Domenico Russo, Laszlo Erno Kiss, Jorge Bruno Reis Wahnon, David Alexander Learmonth, Tibor Eszenyi, Axel Zimmermann, Bjoern Schlummer, Michael Kreis, and Klaus Reiter. The assignee is BIAL—PORTELA & CA, S.A., a pharmaceutical company known for its innovative approaches in drug development[2][4].
Patent Scope and Claims
Chemical Compound
The patent describes a methylated intermediate compound that can be demethylated to yield an inhibitor of COMT. This intermediate is a key step in the synthesis of the final COMT inhibitor, which is useful in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and other disorders related to dopamine metabolism[1].
Methods of Preparation
The patent outlines various methods for preparing the methylated intermediate, including synthesis reactions, stirring, and dissolution methods. It also details the use of specific solvents and conditions necessary for the synthesis[1].
Pharmaceutical Composition
The patent claims include the pharmaceutical composition of the COMT inhibitor, which can be formulated into various dosage forms such as capsules, tablets, or other drug carriers. This ensures the compound can be administered effectively to patients[1].
Use in Treatment
The primary claim of the patent is the use of the COMT inhibitor in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. The inhibitor helps in increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, thereby alleviating symptoms of the disease[1].
Claims Structure
The patent includes multiple claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Independent Claims: These claims define the novel chemical compound and its use as an intermediate for preparing a COMT inhibitor.
- Dependent Claims: These claims specify the methods of preparation, pharmaceutical compositions, and dosage forms of the COMT inhibitor.
- Method Claims: These claims detail the processes involved in synthesizing the intermediate and the final COMT inhibitor[1].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
Several other patents are related to the development of COMT inhibitors and their use in treating Parkinson's disease. For example, US Patent 9,120,988 and US Patent 8,907,099, also assigned to BIAL—PORTELA & CA, S.A., describe similar compounds and methods for their preparation[2][5].
Expiration Dates
The patent US9630955 is set to expire on December 12, 2032. This expiration date is crucial for generic drug manufacturers who may be interested in producing generic versions of the COMT inhibitor once the patent expires[4].
Competitive Environment
The patent landscape for COMT inhibitors is competitive, with multiple pharmaceutical companies involved in the development of similar compounds. Companies like Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc., and other generic manufacturers are closely monitoring patent expirations to enter the market with their own versions of these drugs[4].
Impact on Pharmaceutical Industry
Innovation
This patent represents a significant innovation in the treatment of Parkinson's disease by providing a more efficient and effective way to synthesize COMT inhibitors. This innovation can lead to better patient outcomes and improved quality of life for those suffering from the disease.
Market Dynamics
The expiration of this patent in 2032 will likely lead to increased competition in the market for COMT inhibitors. Generic versions of the drug could become available, potentially reducing costs for patients and increasing access to treatment.
Conclusion
United States Patent 9,630,955 is a critical patent in the field of neurodegenerative disease treatment, particularly for Parkinson's disease. It provides a novel intermediate compound for the synthesis of COMT inhibitors, which are essential for managing the disease. Understanding the scope, claims, and patent landscape of this invention is vital for pharmaceutical companies, researchers, and healthcare professionals.
Key Takeaways
- The patent describes a methylated intermediate for preparing a COMT inhibitor.
- The invention is useful in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
- The patent includes detailed methods for synthesizing the intermediate and the final COMT inhibitor.
- The patent is set to expire on December 12, 2032.
- The competitive landscape for COMT inhibitors is complex, with multiple companies involved.
FAQs
What is the primary use of the compound described in US Patent 9,630,955?
The primary use of the compound is as an intermediate for preparing a catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitor, which is useful in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.
Who are the inventors of this patent?
The inventors include Domenico Russo, Laszlo Erno Kiss, Jorge Bruno Reis Wahnon, David Alexander Learmonth, Tibor Eszenyi, Axel Zimmermann, Bjoern Schlummer, Michael Kreis, and Klaus Reiter.
What is the expiration date of this patent?
The patent is set to expire on December 12, 2032.
What are the potential impacts of this patent's expiration on the pharmaceutical market?
The expiration of this patent could lead to increased competition with the entry of generic versions of the COMT inhibitor, potentially reducing costs and increasing access to treatment.
How does this patent contribute to the treatment of Parkinson's disease?
This patent contributes by providing a novel and efficient method for synthesizing COMT inhibitors, which are crucial for managing Parkinson's disease by increasing the availability of dopamine in the brain.
Cited Sources
- US Patent 9,630,955: Chemical compound useful as intermediate for preparing a catechol-O-methyltransferase inhibitor.
- Justia Patents: Oxadiazole Ring Bonded Directly To The Six-membered Hetero Ring Patents.
- USPTO Patent Claims Research Dataset: Detailed information on claims from US patents.
- GreyB: List - 59 Drug Patents Expiring in 2027.
- Drugs.com: Generic Ongentys Availability.
