United States Patent 9,732,062: A Detailed Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape
Introduction
United States Patent 9,732,062, titled "Therapeutically active compounds and their methods of use," is a significant patent in the field of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the treatment of cancer. This article delves into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Background of the Patent
The patent, issued on August 15, 2017, pertains to therapeutically active compounds and their methods of use, particularly in the context of cancer treatment. The invention involves the analysis of cancer cells through sequencing to determine specific mutations, which can then be targeted by the therapeutically active compounds described in the patent[4].
Scope of the Patent
Therapeutically Active Compounds
The patent focuses on a class of compounds designed to target specific mutations in cancer cells. These compounds are engineered to interact with mutated proteins, thereby inhibiting the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. The scope includes various chemical structures and their derivatives, which are optionally substituted with different functional groups[4].
Methods of Use
The methods of use outlined in the patent involve the administration of these therapeutically active compounds to patients with specific types of cancer. The patent also describes diagnostic methods to identify patients who would benefit from these treatments, such as sequencing cell samples to determine the presence and nature of mutations[4].
Claims of the Patent
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the core inventions. These claims typically cover the specific chemical structures of the therapeutically active compounds, their pharmaceutical compositions, and the methods for their use in treating cancer.
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims further specify the independent claims by adding additional limitations or features. For example, these might include specific dosages, administration routes, or combinations with other therapeutic agents[4].
Patent Landscape
Prior Art
The patent landscape for US 9,732,062 includes a review of prior art related to cancer treatment and targeted therapies. The patent office would have considered existing patents and publications related to similar compounds and methods to ensure the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention[1].
Related Patents
Other patents in the same field may cover similar or overlapping subject matter. For instance, patents related to targeted cancer therapies, such as those involving kinase inhibitors or other mutation-specific treatments, would be relevant. The Global Dossier service provided by the USPTO can help identify related patent families and their status across different jurisdictions[1].
International Patent Filings
To understand the global reach of this patent, it is essential to look at international patent filings. Databases such as the European Patent Office's esp@cenet, the Japan Patent Office, and the World Intellectual Property Organization's PATENTSCOPE can provide insights into whether similar patents have been filed or granted in other countries[1].
Economic and Legal Implications
Market Impact
The issuance of this patent can have significant market implications, particularly in the pharmaceutical industry. It can influence the development of new cancer treatments and impact the competitive landscape among pharmaceutical companies.
Legal Considerations
The legal status of the patent, including its expiration date and any potential challenges or litigations, is crucial. The patent is currently active but will expire in the future, at which point the technology will enter the public domain. Legal analyses, such as those provided by the Administrative Conference of the United States (ACUS), can offer insights into the legal and policy considerations surrounding such patents[2][5].
Research and Development
Data and Statistics
Research datasets, such as the Patent Claims Research Dataset provided by the USPTO, can offer detailed insights into patent claims and their scope. These datasets can help analyze trends and patterns in patent filings, including those related to cancer treatments[3].
Expert Opinions
Industry experts and legal practitioners often provide valuable insights into the implications of such patents. For example, consultative groups involved in studies by ACUS can offer perspectives on the feasibility and impact of small claims patent courts, which could affect the enforcement and litigation of patents like US 9,732,062[2].
Public Access and Search Tools
USPTO Resources
The USPTO provides several tools for searching and analyzing patents, including the Patent Public Search tool, the Global Dossier, and the Patent and Trademark Resource Centers (PTRCs). These resources are essential for conducting thorough searches and understanding the patent landscape[1].
International Databases
Access to international patent databases, such as those provided by the European Patent Office, Japan Patent Office, and World Intellectual Property Organization, is crucial for a comprehensive analysis of the patent landscape[1].
Key Takeaways
- Therapeutically Active Compounds: The patent covers specific compounds designed to target mutations in cancer cells.
- Methods of Use: The patent includes methods for diagnosing and treating cancer using these compounds.
- Patent Landscape: Understanding related patents and international filings is essential for navigating the competitive landscape.
- Economic and Legal Implications: The patent's market impact and legal status are critical for stakeholders.
- Research and Development: Utilizing research datasets and expert opinions can provide deeper insights into the patent's significance.
FAQs
What is the main focus of United States Patent 9,732,062?
The main focus of US Patent 9,732,062 is on therapeutically active compounds and their methods of use in treating cancer, particularly by targeting specific mutations in cancer cells.
How can one search for related patents?
One can search for related patents using the USPTO's Patent Public Search tool, Global Dossier, and international databases such as esp@cenet and PATENTSCOPE.
What is the significance of the Patent Claims Research Dataset?
The Patent Claims Research Dataset provides detailed information on claims from US patents and applications, helping in the analysis of patent scope and trends.
How does the patent impact the pharmaceutical industry?
The patent can influence the development of new cancer treatments and affect the competitive landscape among pharmaceutical companies.
When does the patent expire?
The patent's expiration date is not specified in the provided sources, but it can be determined by checking the legal status and expiration information available through patent databases or the USPTO.
Sources
- USPTO - Search for patents: https://www.uspto.gov/patents/search
- ACUS - U.S. Patent Small Claims Court: https://www.acus.gov/research-projects/us-patent-small-claims-court
- USPTO - Patent Claims Research Dataset: https://www.uspto.gov/ip-policy/economic-research/research-datasets/patent-claims-research-dataset
- Google Patents - US9732062B2: https://patents.google.com/patent/US9732062B2/en
- PharmaCompass - US Patent 9732062: https://www.pharmacompass.com/us-patent-9732062