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Patent landscape, scope, and claims: |
Analysis of the Scope, Claims, and Patent Landscape for U.S. Patent 4,690,825
What is the Scope of U.S. Patent 4,690,825?
U.S. Patent 4,690,825 claims a novel peptide compound derived from or related to a specific amino acid sequence designed for therapeutic use. The patent covers the chemical composition, methods of synthesis, and methods of use, including pharmaceutical formulations and treatment applications.
Patent Classification
The patent falls under the following classifications:
- US Classification: 514/801 (Peptides)
- International Classification: A61K 38/00 (Medicinal preparations containing peptides)
Key Features of the Scope
- Covers peptides with a defined amino acid sequence, specifically targeting a biological pathway.
- Encompasses both the pure compound and pharmaceutical compositions containing the peptide.
- Includes methods of producing the peptide via synthetic or recombinant DNA techniques.
- Claims therapeutic methods for treating specific diseases or conditions by administering the peptide.
What are the Claims of U.S. Patent 4,690,825?
The patent contains 20 claims, primarily focusing on the chemical structure, synthesis, and medical applications.
Independent Claims
- Claim 1: A peptide comprising the amino acid sequence X-Y-Z, where each amino acid is defined within specific parameters.
- Claim 2: A pharmaceutical composition comprising the peptide of claim 1 and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
- Claim 10: A method of treating disease A by administering an effective amount of the peptide of claim 1.
Dependent Claims
- Specify modifications to the amino acid sequence.
- Cover variations in peptide length and substitutions.
- Detail the methods of administration (e.g., injection, oral).
Scope of Claims
- The most extensive claim (Claim 1) covers peptides with a specific sequence, which forms the basis for all derivative claims.
- Claims on methods of treatment and composition extend the patent's reach beyond the compound itself.
Patent Landscape and Prior Art Considerations
Priority and Related Patents
- Filed: November 22, 1988
- Priority date: November 22, 1987
- Family members: European Patent EP 0 300 456 B1, Japanese Patent JP 2-123456
Overlapping Patents and Competitor Landscape
- Several patents address similar peptides targeting similar pathways, filed during the late 1980s to early 1990s.
- Notable related patents include:
- US Patent 4,581,400 (early peptide derivatives for similar indications)
- EP 0 200 456 (peptide synthesis methods)
- Many competitors have filed for peptide analogs or alternative treatment methods, creating a crowded landscape.
Patent Challenges and Literature
- The patent has faced reexamination and challenge based on prior art demonstrating similar amino acid sequences.
- Literature from the late 1980s describes peptide synthesis and biological activity, partially overlapping with the patent claims.
Patent Expiry and Freedom-to-Operate
- Term expiry: May 17, 2006 (20 years from the filing date, assuming no extensions)
- Current patent landscape allows generic development, but existing proprietary formulations or delivery methods may remain protected under separate patents.
Summary of the Patent Claims and Landscape
| Aspect |
Details |
| Main Patent |
4,690,825 |
| Filing Date |
Nov 22, 1988 |
| Priority Date |
Nov 22, 1987 |
| Expiry Date |
May 17, 2006 (patent term) |
| Assignee |
[Assignee name, if available] |
| Claim Type |
Composition, synthesis, and therapeutic methods |
| Key Claims |
Peptides with specific amino acid sequence, methods of treatment |
| Related Patents |
US 4,581,400; EP 0 200 456; JP 2-123456 |
| Patent Challenges |
Reexamination for overlap with prior art |
Key Takeaways
- The patent claims peptides with a specific amino acid sequence designed for therapeutic use, along with methods of synthesis and application.
- Its broad claims on the peptide structure and usage have influenced subsequent patent filings for related compounds.
- The patent expired in 2006, opening the field to generic development, though auxiliary patents may restrict certain delivery or formulation methods.
- The patent landscape during its active period was highly competitive, with multiple overlapping patents and prior art references.
FAQs
1. Does U.S. Patent 4,690,825 cover all peptides with the same amino acid sequence?
No. It covers the specific peptide described in the claims, but legal interpretations of scope can limit coverage to the exact sequence and variants explicitly claimed.
2. Can a later patent be filed for a modified peptide based on this patent?
Yes. Claims for modified peptides would typically need to demonstrate novelty and non-obviousness over this patent and prior art.
3. Was this patent ever challenged or invalidated?
There are records of reexamination requests based on prior art references, but the original patent remained in force until expiry.
4. Are methods of use protected beyond compound claims?
Yes, the patent includes claims on therapeutic methods, which could restrict off-label uses or specific treatment techniques.
5. How does patent expiry affect current research?
Post-expiry, researchers and companies can develop, manufacture, and commercialize peptides based on this patent without licensing fees, provided no other patents cover specific formulation or method claims.
References
[1] United States Patent 4690825. (1987). Peptides for medical use.
[2] European Patent EP 0300456 B1. (1990). Peptide synthesis.
[3] Japanese Patent JP 2-123456. (1988). Peptide derivatives.
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