Analyzing the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 10,172,871
Introduction
United States Patent 10,172,871, titled "19-nor C3, 3-disubstituted C21-N-pyrazolyl steroids and methods of use thereof," is a patent that introduces new and improved neuroactive steroids. This analysis will delve into the scope, claims, and the broader patent landscape surrounding this invention.
Patent Overview
Publication Number and Authority
The patent in question is US10172871B2, issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)[4].
Prior Art and Background
The patent addresses the need for new neuroactive steroids that can modulate brain excitability and serve as agents for the prevention and treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. The prior art includes various substituted and unsubstituted steroids, but the invention introduces specific 19-nor C3, 3-disubstituted C21-N-pyrazolyl steroids that offer improved properties.
Claims Analysis
Independent Claims
The patent includes several independent claims that define the scope of the invention. These claims typically describe the chemical structure of the steroids, their synthesis, and their methods of use. For example, Claim 1 might describe a specific 19-nor C3, 3-disubstituted C21-N-pyrazolyl steroid compound, while subsequent claims might detail variations in the chemical structure or different methods of synthesizing these compounds[4].
Dependent Claims
Dependent claims build upon the independent claims, providing additional details or limitations. These claims might specify particular substituents, reaction conditions, or therapeutic applications. For instance, a dependent claim might describe a specific alkyl group substitution that enhances the compound's efficacy in treating CNS disorders.
Claim Scope and Breadth
The scope of the claims is crucial as it defines the boundaries of the invention. The claims must be specific enough to distinguish the invention from prior art but broad enough to cover variations that are equivalent in function. In this case, the claims are tailored to protect the unique chemical structures and their therapeutic applications while allowing for some flexibility in synthesis and substitution.
Chemical Structure and Synthesis
Key Chemical Groups
The patent highlights several key chemical groups, including aryl alkyl groups, carbon-based structures, and specific protecting groups. These groups are essential for the compound's activity and stability. For example, the n-butyl group and potassium tert-butoxide are mentioned as critical components in the synthesis process[4].
Synthesis Methods
The methods of synthesizing these steroids are detailed in the patent. These methods involve various chemical reactions and conditions that are optimized to produce the desired compounds. Understanding these synthesis methods is vital for reproducing the invention and for identifying potential improvements or variations.
Therapeutic Applications
CNS Disorders
The primary therapeutic application of these steroids is in the treatment and prevention of CNS disorders. This includes conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and other neurological diseases. The patent provides evidence of the compounds' efficacy in modulating brain excitability, which is a key factor in managing these disorders[4].
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action involves the interaction of these steroids with specific receptors in the brain, which helps in regulating neuronal activity. This detailed understanding is crucial for developing targeted therapies and for ensuring the safety and efficacy of the compounds.
Patent Landscape
Related Patents and Applications
To understand the broader patent landscape, it is essential to identify related patents and applications. Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search and the Global Dossier can be used to find patent families and related applications filed at participating IP Offices[1].
Prior Art Cited
The patent cites prior art that includes other substituted and unsubstituted steroids. Analyzing these citations helps in understanding the evolutionary path of the invention and the innovations introduced by the current patent.
Competitive Landscape
The competitive landscape in the field of neuroactive steroids is dynamic, with various companies and research institutions actively developing new compounds. Understanding this landscape involves identifying key players, their patents, and their research focus areas.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Patent Validity and Enforcement
The validity and enforceability of the patent are critical. This involves ensuring that the patent meets all the requirements of patentability, including novelty, non-obviousness, and utility. The USPTO's Patent Examination Data System (PEDS) and other resources can provide insights into the examination process and any office actions related to the patent[1].
Potential for Small Claims Court
In the context of patent disputes, the concept of a small claims patent court has been explored. This could potentially simplify and reduce the costs associated with enforcing or challenging patents like US10172871B2[5].
Economic and Research Implications
Economic Impact
The economic impact of this patent can be significant, given the potential market for neuroactive steroids in treating CNS disorders. The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset can provide insights into the economic implications of patent claims and the scope of patents in this field[3].
Research and Development
The patent's detailed information on claims and chemical structures can facilitate further research and development. Researchers can use this data to explore new variations of the compounds or to develop new therapeutic applications.
Key Takeaways
- Chemical Structure: The patent introduces specific 19-nor C3, 3-disubstituted C21-N-pyrazolyl steroids with unique chemical structures.
- Therapeutic Applications: These compounds are designed to treat and prevent CNS disorders by modulating brain excitability.
- Synthesis Methods: Detailed synthesis methods are provided, including critical chemical reactions and conditions.
- Patent Landscape: Understanding related patents and applications is crucial for navigating the competitive landscape.
- Legal Considerations: Ensuring patent validity and enforceability is essential, along with being aware of potential legal reforms like small claims patent courts.
FAQs
Q: What is the primary therapeutic application of the compounds described in US10172871B2?
A: The primary therapeutic application is in the treatment and prevention of CNS disorders, such as epilepsy and anxiety.
Q: How can one search for related patents and applications?
A: Tools like the USPTO's Patent Public Search and the Global Dossier can be used to find related patents and applications.
Q: What is the significance of the chemical groups mentioned in the patent?
A: The chemical groups, such as aryl alkyl groups and specific protecting groups, are essential for the compound's activity and stability.
Q: How does the patent's mechanism of action help in treating CNS disorders?
A: The mechanism involves the interaction of the steroids with specific brain receptors, helping to regulate neuronal activity and manage CNS disorders.
Q: What resources can be used to analyze the economic impact of this patent?
A: The USPTO's Patent Claims Research Dataset and other economic research datasets can provide insights into the economic implications of the patent claims.
