Understanding the Scope and Claims of United States Patent RE48898E1
Introduction
The United States Patent RE48898E1, titled "Prodrugs of 2,4-pyrimidinediamine compounds and their uses," is a reissue patent that provides insights into the development and application of specific prodrugs. Here, we will delve into the details of the patent's scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape.
Patent Overview
Publication Number and Authority
The patent RE48898E1 is a reissue patent granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). It is based on the original application US16/291,992 and has been active since its reissue date[4].
Scope of the Patent
Subject Matter
The patent focuses on prodrugs of biologically active 2,4-pyrimidinediamine compounds. Prodrugs are inactive compounds that undergo metabolic conversion in the body to release the active drug. This patent describes various prodrugs, their salts, hydrates, and compositions, along with their uses.
Claims
The claims in a patent application are crucial as they define the scope of the patent's protection. For RE48898E1, the claims would typically include:
- Independent Claims: These define the broadest scope of the invention, such as the structure of the prodrugs and their uses.
- Dependent Claims: These narrow down the scope by adding specific limitations or features to the independent claims, such as particular salts or hydrates of the prodrugs.
- Method Claims: These could include methods of preparing the prodrugs, methods of use, or methods of administration.
Claim Analysis
Claim Coverage Matrix
To understand the coverage of the patent claims, a Claim Coverage Matrix can be useful. This matrix categorizes claims by their scope concepts, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of which patents and claims are actively protecting the intellectual property. For RE48898E1, this would involve identifying the key scope concepts related to the prodrugs, such as their chemical structure, pharmacological activity, and specific uses[3].
Claim Charts
Interactive claim charts generated by tools like ClaimScape® can help in reviewing the patent coverage. These charts enable technical experts to determine whether a particular scope concept is applicable to a target product or method, highlighting gaps in current coverage and future design opportunities[3].
Patent Landscape
Competitive Analysis
Understanding the patent landscape involves analyzing the patents held by competitors and identifying gaps or opportunities. For RE48898E1, this would include:
- Prior Art: Reviewing prior art keywords such as "prodrug," "compound," "salt," and "phosphate" to understand the existing technology and how the current patent innovates upon it[4].
- Market Position: Analyzing the market position of similar prodrugs and their applications to determine the competitive advantage of the patented compounds.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
Patent Term and Fees
The patent term for RE48898E1, like other U.S. patents, is generally 20 years from the filing date of the original patent application. Applicants must pay issue fees in a timely manner to maintain the patent. Recent changes in patent fees, as proposed by the USPTO, may affect the cost of maintaining and enforcing patents, including reissue patents like RE48898E1[1].
Examination and Appeal Process
The examination process for patent applications involves multiple stages, including Office Actions and potential appeals to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. For RE48898E1, any amendments or responses to Office Actions would need to be supported by the original description and not introduce new matter[5].
Strategic Implications
Value Assessment
The value of the patent claims can be assessed based on their current and potential future value to the company. High-value claims are those that are crucial to current products or services, while medium-value claims indicate potential future directions. Low-value claims might not be worth maintaining[3].
Design and Development
The patent claims and scope concepts can guide engineers, scientists, and management in determining new design options and ensuring that future developments are within the protected scope of the patent.
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent RE48898E1 defines its scope through claims that cover the structure, uses, and methods related to the prodrugs of 2,4-pyrimidinediamine compounds.
- Patent Landscape: Understanding the competitive landscape involves analyzing prior art, market position, and the broader patent portfolio.
- Legal and Regulatory: The patent term, fees, and examination process are critical for maintaining and enforcing the patent.
- Strategic Implications: The value assessment and design guidance from the patent claims are essential for strategic decision-making.
FAQs
1. What is the primary focus of the United States Patent RE48898E1?
The primary focus of the patent is on prodrugs of biologically active 2,4-pyrimidinediamine compounds, including their salts, hydrates, and compositions.
2. How are the claims in a patent application structured?
Claims in a patent application are structured into independent claims, which define the broadest scope of the invention, and dependent claims, which narrow down the scope by adding specific limitations.
3. What is the purpose of a Claim Coverage Matrix?
A Claim Coverage Matrix helps in categorizing claims by their scope concepts, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of which patents and claims are actively protecting the intellectual property.
4. How do changes in patent fees affect the maintenance of patents like RE48898E1?
Changes in patent fees, as proposed by the USPTO, can affect the cost of maintaining and enforcing patents, including reissue patents like RE48898E1, impacting the financial sustainability of patent protection.
5. What is the significance of the examination and appeal process in patent applications?
The examination and appeal process ensures that the patent claims are thoroughly reviewed and validated, with opportunities for applicants to respond to Office Actions and appeal decisions to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board if necessary.
Sources
- Federal Register/Vol. 89, No. 65/Wednesday, April 3, 2024 - GovInfo
- HYATT v. HIRSHFELD - Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
- Patent Analytics - Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner, P.A.
- Prodrugs of 2,4-pyrimidinediamine compounds and their uses - Google Patents
- Patents - The Maryland People's Law Library
