United States Patent 10,155,002: A Detailed Analysis of Scope and Claims
Introduction
United States Patent 10,155,002, titled "Aryl- or heteroaryl-substituted benzene compounds," is a patent that delves into the realm of pharmaceutical chemistry, specifically focusing on the synthesis and application of aryl- or heteroaryl-substituted benzene compounds. This article will provide a comprehensive analysis of the patent's scope, claims, and its position within the broader patent landscape.
Background of the Patent
The patent, granted on December 18, 2018, is part of a broader category of pharmaceutical inventions aimed at developing new therapeutic agents. The compounds described in this patent are designed to have specific biological activities, making them potential candidates for various medical treatments[1].
Scope of the Patent
The scope of the patent is defined by the claims, which outline the specific inventions and their variations that are protected under the patent. Here, the patent covers aryl- or heteroaryl-substituted benzene compounds, including their synthesis methods, pharmaceutical compositions, and potential therapeutic uses.
Claims Structure
The claims are structured to include both independent and dependent claims. Independent claims define the broadest scope of the invention, while dependent claims narrow down the scope by adding specific features or limitations. For example, Claim 1 might describe a general class of aryl-substituted benzene compounds, while Claim 2 might specify a particular substituent or functional group that narrows the scope[1].
Independent Claim Length and Count
Research on patent scope often uses metrics such as independent claim length and count to assess the breadth of a patent. A shorter independent claim length and a lower claim count typically indicate a narrower, more focused patent scope. In the case of US 10,155,002, analyzing these metrics can provide insights into the patent's breadth and how it compares to other patents in the field[3].
Pharmaceutical Applications
The patent highlights the potential therapeutic applications of the aryl- or heteroaryl-substituted benzene compounds. These compounds are often designed to target specific biological pathways or enzymes, making them valuable in the treatment of various diseases.
Mechanism of Action
Understanding the mechanism of action is crucial for assessing the patent's scope and potential impact. For instance, if the compounds act as inhibitors of a particular enzyme, the patent would cover not only the compounds themselves but also methods of using these compounds to inhibit the enzyme and treat related conditions[1].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape for pharmaceutical compounds is highly competitive and dynamic. Here are some key aspects to consider:
Prior Art
Conducting a thorough search of prior art is essential to ensure the novelty and non-obviousness of the invention. The USPTO provides resources such as the Public Search Facility and online databases to help inventors and patent practitioners search for prior art[5].
Related Patents
Other patents related to aryl- or heteroaryl-substituted benzene compounds can provide context on the existing state of the art. For example, patents like those listed for Tazemetostat, which also involve methyltransferase inhibitors, can offer insights into the broader therapeutic applications and competitive landscape[4].
Patent Scope Metrics
Metrics such as patent maintenance payments, forward citations, and the breadth of patent classes can be used to evaluate the scope and impact of a patent. Narrower claims at publication are often associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process, as shown in research on patent scope[3].
Examination Process
The examination process for US 10,155,002 would have involved a detailed review of the patent application by the USPTO. This includes assessing the claims for clarity, novelty, and non-obviousness.
Claim Dependency
The dependency relationship between claims is crucial during the examination process. Claims that are overly broad or lack clarity may face objections or require amendments to narrow their scope[2].
Economic and Innovation Impact
The economic and innovation impact of a patent like US 10,155,002 can be significant. Patents that are too broad can lead to increased licensing and litigation costs, potentially diminishing innovation incentives. However, well-defined and narrowly scoped patents can foster innovation by providing clear boundaries and encouraging further research and development[3].
Industry Expert Insights
Industry experts often emphasize the importance of balanced patent scope. For instance, Alan C. Marco and Joshua D. Sarnoff note that "narrower claims at publication are associated with a higher probability of grant and a shorter examination process than broader claims," highlighting the need for careful claim drafting[3].
Statistical Analysis
Statistical analysis of patent data can provide valuable insights into the trends and impacts of patent scope. For example, the Patent Claims Research Dataset by the USPTO offers detailed information on claims from US patents granted between 1976 and 2014, which can be used to analyze the scope and trends of patents in the pharmaceutical sector[2].
Key Takeaways
- Scope and Claims: The patent covers aryl- or heteroaryl-substituted benzene compounds, including their synthesis, pharmaceutical compositions, and therapeutic uses.
- Pharmaceutical Applications: The compounds have potential therapeutic applications, particularly as enzyme inhibitors.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a competitive landscape with other related patents, and its scope is defined by metrics such as independent claim length and count.
- Examination Process: The patent underwent a detailed examination process to ensure clarity, novelty, and non-obviousness.
- Economic and Innovation Impact: The patent's scope can influence innovation incentives and licensing costs.
FAQs
What is the main subject of United States Patent 10,155,002?
The main subject of United States Patent 10,155,002 is aryl- or heteroaryl-substituted benzene compounds, including their synthesis, pharmaceutical compositions, and potential therapeutic uses.
How is the scope of the patent defined?
The scope of the patent is defined by the claims, which include both independent and dependent claims that outline the specific inventions and their variations.
What are the potential therapeutic applications of the compounds described in the patent?
The compounds described in the patent have potential therapeutic applications, particularly as enzyme inhibitors, which could be used to treat various diseases.
How does the patent landscape affect the scope and impact of US 10,155,002?
The patent landscape, including prior art and related patents, influences the scope and impact of US 10,155,002 by providing context on the existing state of the art and competitive landscape.
What metrics are used to evaluate the scope and impact of a patent like US 10,155,002?
Metrics such as independent claim length, independent claim count, patent maintenance payments, forward citations, and the breadth of patent classes are used to evaluate the scope and impact of a patent.
Sources
- US10155002B2 - Aryl- or heteroaryl-substituted benzene compounds - Google Patents
- Patent Claims Research Dataset - USPTO
- Patent Claims and Patent Scope - SSRN
- Tazemetostat: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action - DrugBank
- Applying for Patents - USPTO
