Detailed Analysis of the Scope and Claims of United States Patent 10,786,444
Introduction
United States Patent 10,786,444, titled "pH dependent carriers for targeted release of biologically active agents," is a significant innovation in the field of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical delivery systems. This patent, assigned to PLx Opco Inc., introduces novel drug carriers designed for targeted and pH-dependent release of active agents.
Background of the Invention
The patent builds upon earlier research and patents, particularly those related to biocompatible carriers and targeted drug delivery systems. It addresses the need for carriers that can release active agents in a controlled manner, particularly in response to specific pH environments within the body[1].
Field of the Invention
The patent pertains to targeted release carriers and pH-dependent release carriers. These carriers are designed to release biologically active agents, including pharmaceutical and nutraceutical agents, in a targeted manner. This is achieved through the inclusion of biocompatible agents and pH-dependent release agents that modulate the release of the active agents based on the pH of the environment[1].
Description of the Related Art
Previous patents and compositions have focused on reducing gastrointestinal toxicity of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) using biocompatible oil carriers with high phospholipid content. However, these earlier systems lacked the capability for targeted and pH-dependent release. The current patent fills this gap by introducing carriers that can release active agents in response to specific pH levels, ensuring more precise and effective drug delivery[1].
Summary of the Invention
The patent describes compositions and methods for making and using targeted release carriers and pH-dependent release carriers. These carriers include at least one biocompatible agent and at least one active agent (pharmaceutical or nutraceutical). The key innovation is the inclusion of pH-dependent release agents that allow the active agents to be released in a targeted and controlled manner based on the pH of the environment[1].
Detailed Description of the Carriers
Components of the Carriers
- Biocompatible Agents: These agents are crucial for ensuring the safety and efficacy of the carriers. They can include uncharged lipids such as triglycerides, which remain stable across a wide pH range[1].
- pH-Dependent Release Agents: These agents are designed to release the active agents in response to specific pH levels. This allows for targeted delivery to specific areas of the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract or other tissues with distinct pH profiles[1].
Methods of Preparation
The carriers can be prepared using two primary methods:
- Solvation/Evaporation Method: This involves contacting the carrier and active agent in the presence of a solvent system. The solvent is then removed through distillation or evaporation to form the desired composition[1].
- Admix Method: This method involves simply admixing the active agents with the carrier under appropriate conditions of temperature, pressure, and time, without the use of a solvent system[1].
Claims of the Patent
The patent includes several claims that define the scope of the invention:
- Claim 1: A composition including a targeted release carrier and an effective amount of at least one biologically active agent, where the carrier includes at least one biocompatible agent and at least one pH-dependent release agent[1].
- Claim 2: A method for making the composition by contacting the carrier and active agent under specified conditions[1].
- Claim 3: The composition where the active agents include pharmaceutical agents and/or nutraceutical agents[1].
Patent Landscape
The patent landscape in this area is complex, with numerous patents and applications related to drug delivery systems. However, the specific focus on pH-dependent release carriers sets this patent apart. Here are some key points in the patent landscape:
- Related Patents: Other patents, such as those related to liposomal formulations, also address targeted drug delivery but may not include the pH-dependent aspect[2].
- Market Impact: The introduction of pH-dependent release carriers could significantly impact the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries by offering more precise and effective drug delivery methods.
Analytical Tools and Patent Analytics
To fully understand the scope and claims of this patent, analytical tools such as Claim Coverage Matrices and Claim Charts can be useful. These tools help in categorizing patents by claims and scope concepts, making it easier to identify gaps in coverage and future design opportunities[5].
Claim Coverage Matrix
This tool allows for the categorization of patents by claims and overarching scope concepts, enabling a comprehensive analysis of the patent landscape. It helps in identifying which patents and claims are actively protecting the intellectual property and where gaps or opportunities exist[5].
Claim Charts
Interactive claim charts generated by software like ClaimScape® can be reviewed by technical experts to determine the applicability of specific scope concepts to target products or methods. This helps in quickly and accurately identifying gaps in current coverage and highlighting future design opportunities[5].
Key Takeaways
- Targeted Drug Delivery: The patent introduces a novel approach to targeted drug delivery using pH-dependent release carriers.
- Biocompatible Agents: The carriers include biocompatible agents to ensure safety and efficacy.
- pH-Dependent Release: The release of active agents is controlled by pH-dependent release agents, allowing for precise delivery to specific areas of the body.
- Methods of Preparation: The carriers can be prepared using solvation/evaporation or admix methods.
- Patent Landscape: The patent is part of a broader landscape of drug delivery systems but stands out due to its pH-dependent release mechanism.
FAQs
What is the main innovation of United States Patent 10,786,444?
The main innovation is the development of pH-dependent release carriers that can release biologically active agents in a targeted manner based on the pH of the environment.
How are the carriers prepared according to the patent?
The carriers can be prepared using either the solvation/evaporation method or the admix method, depending on whether a solvent system is used.
What types of agents are included in the carriers?
The carriers include biocompatible agents and pH-dependent release agents, along with the active agents (pharmaceutical or nutraceutical).
How does the patent impact the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries?
The patent could significantly impact these industries by offering more precise and effective drug delivery methods, reducing side effects, and improving efficacy.
What analytical tools can be used to understand the scope and claims of this patent?
Tools such as Claim Coverage Matrices and Claim Charts can be used to categorize patents by claims and scope concepts, helping to identify gaps in coverage and future design opportunities.
Cited Sources
- US Patent for PH dependent carriers for targeted release of biologically active agents. Justia Patents.
- US-5505960-A - Liposomal Piroxicam Formulations. Unified Patents.
- Patent Claims Research Dataset. USPTO.
- Search for patents - USPTO. USPTO.
- Patent Analytics. Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner, P.A.
