Pyruvate Kinase Activators for Use in Therapy: A Detailed Analysis of United States Patent 9,682,080
Introduction
United States Patent 9,682,080, titled "Pyruvate Kinase Activators for Use in Therapy," is a significant patent in the field of biochemistry and pharmacology, particularly focusing on the activation of pyruvate kinase. This patent, assigned to Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., outlines methods and compounds for activating pyruvate kinase, which is crucial for treating various metabolic and hematological disorders.
Background on Pyruvate Kinase
Pyruvate kinase is an enzyme that plays a pivotal role in the glycolytic pathway, converting phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) into pyruvate, generating ATP in the process. Deficiencies or mutations in pyruvate kinase can lead to conditions such as pyruvate kinase deficiency, a rare genetic disorder characterized by hemolytic anemia.
Patent Overview
Issuance and Assignee
The patent was issued on June 20, 2017, to Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., with Su Shin-San Michael listed as the inventor[2][5].
Patent Expiration Date
The patent is set to expire on May 3, 2032, which is a critical date for understanding the timeline of exclusivity for the patented methods and compounds[2][5].
Scope and Claims
Methods of Activation
The patent describes various methods for using compounds that activate pyruvate kinase. These methods involve the administration of specific activators to enhance the enzymatic activity of pyruvate kinase, which is particularly beneficial for treating conditions associated with pyruvate kinase deficiency[1][2].
Compounds and Structures
The patent details the chemical structures and synthesis of the activator compounds. These compounds are designed to interact with pyruvate kinase in a way that increases its activity, thereby improving the metabolic pathway affected by the enzyme's deficiency[1][4].
Therapeutic Applications
The primary therapeutic application of these activators is in the treatment of pyruvate kinase deficiency and other related metabolic disorders. The patent also suggests potential uses in other conditions where enhanced pyruvate kinase activity could be beneficial[1][2].
Patent Landscape
Related Patents
Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has a series of patents related to pyruvate kinase activators, each covering different aspects of the technology:
- Patent 9,193,701: Issued on November 24, 2015, this patent also deals with methods for using pyruvate kinase activators and has a similar expiration date of October 26, 2032[2].
- Patent 9,980,961: Issued on May 29, 2018, this patent further elaborates on the use of pyruvate kinase activators and expires on May 3, 2032[2].
- Patent 11,234,976: Issued on February 1, 2022, this patent covers additional methods of using pyruvate kinase activators and has an expiration date of October 11, 2038[2].
Patent Expiration Dates and Market Impact
The expiration dates of these patents are crucial for understanding the competitive landscape and market exclusivity. The earliest expiration date among these related patents is May 3, 2032, which means that until then, Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc. retains exclusive rights to the methods and compounds described in these patents[2][5].
Analyzing Claims and Scope Concepts
Claim Coverage
The claims in Patent 9,682,080 are comprehensive, covering the specific compounds, their synthesis, and the methods of their use in therapy. These claims are designed to protect the intellectual property of Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., ensuring that no other entity can use these methods or compounds without permission until the patent expires[3].
Scope Concepts
The scope concepts in this patent include the activation of pyruvate kinase, the treatment of pyruvate kinase deficiency, and the use of specific chemical compounds. These concepts are categorized to help in filtering, searching, and analyzing large numbers of patent claims concurrently, which is essential for maintaining and expanding the patent portfolio[3].
Practical Implications and Future Directions
Clinical Applications
The activation of pyruvate kinase has significant clinical implications, particularly for patients with pyruvate kinase deficiency. The compounds and methods described in this patent offer a potential therapeutic approach to managing this condition, improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
Research and Development
The ongoing research and development in this area are likely to lead to the discovery of new compounds and methods for activating pyruvate kinase. This could expand the therapeutic applications beyond pyruvate kinase deficiency to other metabolic disorders.
Key Takeaways
- Patent Exclusivity: Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc. holds exclusive rights to the methods and compounds described in Patent 9,682,080 until May 3, 2032.
- Therapeutic Applications: The primary application is in treating pyruvate kinase deficiency, with potential uses in other metabolic disorders.
- Related Patents: A series of related patents cover various aspects of pyruvate kinase activation, ensuring comprehensive protection of the intellectual property.
- Clinical Impact: The activation of pyruvate kinase offers a promising therapeutic approach for managing pyruvate kinase deficiency.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary focus of United States Patent 9,682,080?
A: The primary focus is on methods and compounds for activating pyruvate kinase for therapeutic use.
Q: Who is the assignee of this patent?
A: The assignee is Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Q: When does the patent expire?
A: The patent expires on May 3, 2032.
Q: What are the therapeutic applications of the compounds described in this patent?
A: The primary therapeutic application is in the treatment of pyruvate kinase deficiency, with potential uses in other metabolic disorders.
Q: Are there related patents covering similar technology?
A: Yes, there are several related patents issued to Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc., covering different aspects of pyruvate kinase activation.
Sources
- US9682080B2 - Pyruvate kinase activators for use in therapy - Google Patents
- Generic Pyrukynd Availability - Drugs.com
- Patent Analytics - Intellectual Property Law
- United States Patent - googleapis.com
- Pyrukynd patent expiration - Pharsight
