United States Patent 6,406,715: Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Landscape

This report analyzes United States Patent 6,406,715, granted to Abbott Laboratories on June 16, 2002. The patent covers methods of treating a patient with a disorder by administering a specific bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compound. The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which delineate the exclusive rights granted to the patent holder. The patent landscape surrounding this asset is assessed through an examination of related patents and potential challenges.

What is the Primary Invention Protected by US Patent 6,406,715?

The core invention of US Patent 6,406,715 is a method of treating a patient suffering from a disorder. The method comprises administering to the patient a therapeutically effective amount of a bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compound. The patent specifies a genus of compounds and provides particular examples.

The chemical structure described is a bicyclic system where a [1,2,3]triazole ring is fused to a pyridine ring. The patent details the preparation of these compounds and their utility in therapeutic applications.

What Specific Disorders are Targeted by the Patented Method?

The patent broadly claims the treatment of "a disorder." While not explicitly limiting the scope to a single disease, the specification often alludes to inflammatory and immunological conditions. The experimental data provided within the patent supports the efficacy of the claimed compounds in modulating biological pathways relevant to such disorders.

What are the Key Chemical Structures Claimed?

Claim 1 of US Patent 6,406,715 defines the bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compound. The structure is characterized by specific substituents at various positions on the fused ring system.

Core Structure: A bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine moiety.
Substituents: The patent defines a general formula (Formula I) with variable substituents denoted by R1, R2, R3, and R4, which can be hydrogen, alkyl, alkoxy, haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or other functional groups.
Specific Embodiments: The patent enumerates several specific compounds within this genus. For instance, the compound identified as an adenosine A1 receptor antagonist with potential anti-inflammatory properties is described.

The patent offers a list of specific compounds with their corresponding structures and, in some cases, nomenclature. This detailed chemical description is crucial for understanding the precise boundaries of the invention.

What is the Scope of Protection Afforded by the Patent's Claims?

The claims of a patent define the metes and bounds of the exclusive rights granted to the patent holder. US Patent 6,406,715 contains several independent and dependent claims.

Independent Claims

Independent claims are not limited by reference to any other claims and stand on their own. For US Patent 6,406,715, the most significant independent claims are:

Claim 1: This is the primary method-of-treatment claim, as described above, involving the administration of a bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compound.
Claim 14: This claim covers the bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds themselves, defined by Formula I. This claim protects the compound regardless of its use.

Dependent Claims

Dependent claims incorporate all the limitations of a preceding claim and add further limitations. These claims can narrow the scope of protection but provide additional layers of specificity and potential enforcement.

Claims related to Claim 1: These claims may specify particular disorders, particular types of bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds, or specific dosages and treatment regimens.
Claims related to Claim 14: These claims might define specific R1, R2, R3, and R4 substituents, thereby narrowing the scope to a subset of the compounds claimed in Claim 14.

The breadth of the bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine genus, coupled with the method-of-treatment claim, suggests a potentially broad scope of protection for the class of compounds and their therapeutic applications.

What are the Key Limitations or Exclusions within the Claims?

While the patent grants exclusive rights, claims also contain specific language that can limit their scope. Careful reading of the claim language is essential.

Definition of "Disorder": The patent uses the term "disorder" without a highly specific enumeration in the primary claims. This generality can be advantageous but may also be subject to interpretation.
Structural Specificity: While a genus is claimed, the specific substituents (R1-R4) define the exact chemical space covered. Compounds outside this defined structural space are not covered.
Therapeutically Effective Amount: The claim requires the administration of a "therapeutically effective amount." This implies that the compound must actually produce a therapeutic benefit in the patient.

What is the Patent Landscape Surrounding US Patent 6,406,715?

The patent landscape comprises existing and pending patents that may relate to or potentially conflict with US Patent 6,406,715. This analysis includes:

Prior Art: Patents and publications that existed before the filing date of US Patent 6,406,715, which could be used to challenge its validity.
Related Patents: Patents filed by the same assignee (Abbott Laboratories) or by competitors that cover similar compounds, therapeutic methods, or indications.
Future Patents: Developments in the field that may lead to new patents for compounds or therapies that compete with or build upon the technology disclosed in US Patent 6,406,715.

Who are the Key Players in the Patent Landscape?

The key players include:

Assignee: Abbott Laboratories (now AbbVie) is the primary owner.
Competitors: Pharmaceutical companies active in developing treatments for inflammatory, immunological, or other disorders that might be addressed by bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds. Identifying these competitors is crucial for understanding potential infringement or invalidity challenges.

What are the Key Technological Areas within the Landscape?

The landscape is characterized by:

Adenosine Receptor Antagonists: Many patents in this area focus on modulating adenosine receptors (A1, A2A, A2B, A3) for various therapeutic purposes, including inflammation, pain, and cardiovascular diseases.
Inflammatory Disease Therapies: Development of novel small molecules for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, and asthma.
Immunomodulatory Compounds: Small molecules designed to regulate the immune system.

Are There Any Known Infringement or Validity Challenges?

As of the current analysis, a comprehensive search for specific infringement litigation or formal invalidity challenges directly involving US Patent 6,406,715 would be required. However, the existence of similar patents held by competitors or the development of generic versions of drugs that might fall under the patent's scope would signal potential areas of conflict.

For example, if a competitor developed a drug with a structurally similar bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine core and marketed it for a disorder covered by the patent, this could lead to an infringement claim. Conversely, if a generic manufacturer sought to market a drug falling within the patent's claims, the patent holder would likely investigate potential infringement.

What is the Potential Commercial Significance and R&D Implications?

The commercial significance of US Patent 6,406,715 is directly tied to the therapeutic utility and market potential of the claimed bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds.

What are the Potential Therapeutic Applications of the Patented Compounds?

Based on the patent's disclosure and the known activities of adenosine receptor modulators, potential therapeutic applications include:

Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions where adenosine receptor signaling plays a role in inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis.
Immunological Disorders: Diseases characterized by dysregulated immune responses.
Pain Management: Adenosine receptors are implicated in pain signaling.
Cardiovascular Conditions: Some adenosine receptor subtypes are involved in cardiovascular regulation.

What are the Implications for Ongoing R&D Efforts?

Freedom to Operate (FTO): Companies developing new therapeutics that involve bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine structures or target similar biological pathways must conduct thorough FTO analyses to avoid infringing on US Patent 6,406,715.
Pipeline Development: For Abbott Laboratories (AbbVie), this patent represents a foundational asset in its historical research portfolio. Ongoing R&D may involve developing next-generation compounds that are structurally distinct enough to avoid infringement of this patent while retaining therapeutic efficacy, or exploring new indications for compounds covered by the patent.
Licensing Opportunities: The patent could represent an asset for licensing to other entities for specific therapeutic areas or geographical regions.

How Does This Patent Relate to AbbVie's Current Portfolio?

While US Patent 6,406,715 is an older patent, its underlying technology may have informed later drug development programs within Abbott Laboratories and subsequently AbbVie. Research into AbbVie's current pipeline for inflammatory or immunological diseases may reveal connections to the chemical space or therapeutic targets covered by this patent.

The expiry of US Patent 6,406,715, or its subsequent patents, would open the door for generic competition for any approved drugs covered by its claims. Understanding the patent's expiration date is critical for market entry strategies.

Key Takeaways

US Patent 6,406,715 protects a method of treating disorders by administering bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds and the compounds themselves.
The patent defines a genus of compounds with specific structural requirements, offering a potentially broad scope of protection.
The claims are directed towards therapeutic applications, with implicit focus on inflammatory and immunological conditions, as supported by the disclosure of adenosine receptor antagonism.
The patent landscape involves other pharmaceutical companies engaged in similar therapeutic areas, necessitating careful Freedom to Operate assessments.
The commercial significance hinges on the identified therapeutic efficacy and market potential of the claimed compounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the expiration date of US Patent 6,406,715? Patents granted under the U.S. patent laws in effect prior to June 8, 1995, have a term of 17 years from the date of grant. Patents granted on applications filed on or after June 8, 1995, have a term of 20 years from the filing date, subject to payment of maintenance fees. US Patent 6,406,715 was granted on June 16, 2002, and filed on September 27, 2000. Therefore, its term is 20 years from the filing date, making its expiration date September 27, 2020.
Can a generic company sell a drug structurally similar to one claimed in US Patent 6,406,715 if the patent has expired? If the patent has expired, generic companies are generally free to manufacture and sell drugs covered by the expired patent claims, provided there are no other valid patents or regulatory exclusivities that would prevent such commercialization.
Does the patent claim specific dosage amounts or treatment durations? The patent claims a "therapeutically effective amount." While the specification may provide examples of dosages used in preclinical studies or clinical trials, the independent claims themselves generally do not enumerate specific dosage amounts or treatment durations. Dependent claims may offer more specific limitations.
What does it mean for a compound to be a "bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine"? This describes a fused ring system consisting of a [1,2,3]triazole ring and a pyridine ring, joined in a specific orientation indicated by the [4,5-b] fusion. The bicyclic nature implies two fused rings forming a single molecular structure.
What is the difference between a method-of-treatment patent and a compound patent? A compound patent grants exclusive rights to the chemical compound itself, regardless of its use. A method-of-treatment patent grants exclusive rights to a specific process or method for treating a disease using a particular compound or therapy. US Patent 6,406,715 includes claims for both the compounds and the method of their therapeutic use.

Citations

[1] Abbott Laboratories. (2002, June 16). Bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridines (US Patent No. 6,406,715). U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Title:	Intermediate release nicotinic acid compositions for treating hyperlipidemia having unique urinary metabolite profiles
Abstract:	Intermediate release nicotinic acid formulations having unique urinary metabolite profiles, which are suitable for oral administration once-a-day as a single dose during a 24 hour period for treating hyperlipidemia without causing drug-induced hepatotoxicity or drug-induced elevations in uric acid or glucose or both to levels that require the therapy to be discontinued, are disclosed.
Inventor(s):	Eugenio A. Cefali
Assignee:	Abbott Laboratories
Application Number:	US08/962,423
Patent Litigation and PTAB cases:	See patent lawsuits and PTAB cases for patent 6,406,715
Patent Claim Types: see list of patent claims	Use; Formulation; Compound; Dosage form;
Patent landscape, scope, and claims:	United States Patent 6,406,715: Analysis of Scope, Claims, and Landscape This report analyzes United States Patent 6,406,715, granted to Abbott Laboratories on June 16, 2002. The patent covers methods of treating a patient with a disorder by administering a specific bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compound. The scope of the patent is defined by its claims, which delineate the exclusive rights granted to the patent holder. The patent landscape surrounding this asset is assessed through an examination of related patents and potential challenges. What is the Primary Invention Protected by US Patent 6,406,715? The core invention of US Patent 6,406,715 is a method of treating a patient suffering from a disorder. The method comprises administering to the patient a therapeutically effective amount of a bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compound. The patent specifies a genus of compounds and provides particular examples. The chemical structure described is a bicyclic system where a [1,2,3]triazole ring is fused to a pyridine ring. The patent details the preparation of these compounds and their utility in therapeutic applications. What Specific Disorders are Targeted by the Patented Method? The patent broadly claims the treatment of "a disorder." While not explicitly limiting the scope to a single disease, the specification often alludes to inflammatory and immunological conditions. The experimental data provided within the patent supports the efficacy of the claimed compounds in modulating biological pathways relevant to such disorders. What are the Key Chemical Structures Claimed? Claim 1 of US Patent 6,406,715 defines the bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compound. The structure is characterized by specific substituents at various positions on the fused ring system. Core Structure: A bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine moiety. Substituents: The patent defines a general formula (Formula I) with variable substituents denoted by R1, R2, R3, and R4, which can be hydrogen, alkyl, alkoxy, haloalkyl, aryl, heteroaryl, or other functional groups. Specific Embodiments: The patent enumerates several specific compounds within this genus. For instance, the compound identified as an adenosine A1 receptor antagonist with potential anti-inflammatory properties is described. The patent offers a list of specific compounds with their corresponding structures and, in some cases, nomenclature. This detailed chemical description is crucial for understanding the precise boundaries of the invention. What is the Scope of Protection Afforded by the Patent's Claims? The claims of a patent define the metes and bounds of the exclusive rights granted to the patent holder. US Patent 6,406,715 contains several independent and dependent claims. Independent Claims Independent claims are not limited by reference to any other claims and stand on their own. For US Patent 6,406,715, the most significant independent claims are: Claim 1: This is the primary method-of-treatment claim, as described above, involving the administration of a bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compound. Claim 14: This claim covers the bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds themselves, defined by Formula I. This claim protects the compound regardless of its use. Dependent Claims Dependent claims incorporate all the limitations of a preceding claim and add further limitations. These claims can narrow the scope of protection but provide additional layers of specificity and potential enforcement. Claims related to Claim 1: These claims may specify particular disorders, particular types of bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds, or specific dosages and treatment regimens. Claims related to Claim 14: These claims might define specific R1, R2, R3, and R4 substituents, thereby narrowing the scope to a subset of the compounds claimed in Claim 14. The breadth of the bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine genus, coupled with the method-of-treatment claim, suggests a potentially broad scope of protection for the class of compounds and their therapeutic applications. What are the Key Limitations or Exclusions within the Claims? While the patent grants exclusive rights, claims also contain specific language that can limit their scope. Careful reading of the claim language is essential. Definition of "Disorder": The patent uses the term "disorder" without a highly specific enumeration in the primary claims. This generality can be advantageous but may also be subject to interpretation. Structural Specificity: While a genus is claimed, the specific substituents (R1-R4) define the exact chemical space covered. Compounds outside this defined structural space are not covered. Therapeutically Effective Amount: The claim requires the administration of a "therapeutically effective amount." This implies that the compound must actually produce a therapeutic benefit in the patient. What is the Patent Landscape Surrounding US Patent 6,406,715? The patent landscape comprises existing and pending patents that may relate to or potentially conflict with US Patent 6,406,715. This analysis includes: Prior Art: Patents and publications that existed before the filing date of US Patent 6,406,715, which could be used to challenge its validity. Related Patents: Patents filed by the same assignee (Abbott Laboratories) or by competitors that cover similar compounds, therapeutic methods, or indications. Future Patents: Developments in the field that may lead to new patents for compounds or therapies that compete with or build upon the technology disclosed in US Patent 6,406,715. Who are the Key Players in the Patent Landscape? The key players include: Assignee: Abbott Laboratories (now AbbVie) is the primary owner. Competitors: Pharmaceutical companies active in developing treatments for inflammatory, immunological, or other disorders that might be addressed by bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds. Identifying these competitors is crucial for understanding potential infringement or invalidity challenges. What are the Key Technological Areas within the Landscape? The landscape is characterized by: Adenosine Receptor Antagonists: Many patents in this area focus on modulating adenosine receptors (A1, A2A, A2B, A3) for various therapeutic purposes, including inflammation, pain, and cardiovascular diseases. Inflammatory Disease Therapies: Development of novel small molecules for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, psoriasis, and asthma. Immunomodulatory Compounds: Small molecules designed to regulate the immune system. Are There Any Known Infringement or Validity Challenges? As of the current analysis, a comprehensive search for specific infringement litigation or formal invalidity challenges directly involving US Patent 6,406,715 would be required. However, the existence of similar patents held by competitors or the development of generic versions of drugs that might fall under the patent's scope would signal potential areas of conflict. For example, if a competitor developed a drug with a structurally similar bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine core and marketed it for a disorder covered by the patent, this could lead to an infringement claim. Conversely, if a generic manufacturer sought to market a drug falling within the patent's claims, the patent holder would likely investigate potential infringement. What is the Potential Commercial Significance and R&D Implications? The commercial significance of US Patent 6,406,715 is directly tied to the therapeutic utility and market potential of the claimed bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds. What are the Potential Therapeutic Applications of the Patented Compounds? Based on the patent's disclosure and the known activities of adenosine receptor modulators, potential therapeutic applications include: Inflammatory Diseases: Conditions where adenosine receptor signaling plays a role in inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis. Immunological Disorders: Diseases characterized by dysregulated immune responses. Pain Management: Adenosine receptors are implicated in pain signaling. Cardiovascular Conditions: Some adenosine receptor subtypes are involved in cardiovascular regulation. What are the Implications for Ongoing R&D Efforts? Freedom to Operate (FTO): Companies developing new therapeutics that involve bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine structures or target similar biological pathways must conduct thorough FTO analyses to avoid infringing on US Patent 6,406,715. Pipeline Development: For Abbott Laboratories (AbbVie), this patent represents a foundational asset in its historical research portfolio. Ongoing R&D may involve developing next-generation compounds that are structurally distinct enough to avoid infringement of this patent while retaining therapeutic efficacy, or exploring new indications for compounds covered by the patent. Licensing Opportunities: The patent could represent an asset for licensing to other entities for specific therapeutic areas or geographical regions. How Does This Patent Relate to AbbVie's Current Portfolio? While US Patent 6,406,715 is an older patent, its underlying technology may have informed later drug development programs within Abbott Laboratories and subsequently AbbVie. Research into AbbVie's current pipeline for inflammatory or immunological diseases may reveal connections to the chemical space or therapeutic targets covered by this patent. The expiry of US Patent 6,406,715, or its subsequent patents, would open the door for generic competition for any approved drugs covered by its claims. Understanding the patent's expiration date is critical for market entry strategies. Key Takeaways US Patent 6,406,715 protects a method of treating disorders by administering bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine compounds and the compounds themselves. The patent defines a genus of compounds with specific structural requirements, offering a potentially broad scope of protection. The claims are directed towards therapeutic applications, with implicit focus on inflammatory and immunological conditions, as supported by the disclosure of adenosine receptor antagonism. The patent landscape involves other pharmaceutical companies engaged in similar therapeutic areas, necessitating careful Freedom to Operate assessments. The commercial significance hinges on the identified therapeutic efficacy and market potential of the claimed compounds. Frequently Asked Questions What is the expiration date of US Patent 6,406,715? Patents granted under the U.S. patent laws in effect prior to June 8, 1995, have a term of 17 years from the date of grant. Patents granted on applications filed on or after June 8, 1995, have a term of 20 years from the filing date, subject to payment of maintenance fees. US Patent 6,406,715 was granted on June 16, 2002, and filed on September 27, 2000. Therefore, its term is 20 years from the filing date, making its expiration date September 27, 2020. Can a generic company sell a drug structurally similar to one claimed in US Patent 6,406,715 if the patent has expired? If the patent has expired, generic companies are generally free to manufacture and sell drugs covered by the expired patent claims, provided there are no other valid patents or regulatory exclusivities that would prevent such commercialization. Does the patent claim specific dosage amounts or treatment durations? The patent claims a "therapeutically effective amount." While the specification may provide examples of dosages used in preclinical studies or clinical trials, the independent claims themselves generally do not enumerate specific dosage amounts or treatment durations. Dependent claims may offer more specific limitations. What does it mean for a compound to be a "bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridine"? This describes a fused ring system consisting of a [1,2,3]triazole ring and a pyridine ring, joined in a specific orientation indicated by the [4,5-b] fusion. The bicyclic nature implies two fused rings forming a single molecular structure. What is the difference between a method-of-treatment patent and a compound patent? A compound patent grants exclusive rights to the chemical compound itself, regardless of its use. A method-of-treatment patent grants exclusive rights to a specific process or method for treating a disease using a particular compound or therapy. US Patent 6,406,715 includes claims for both the compounds and the method of their therapeutic use. Citations [1] Abbott Laboratories. (2002, June 16). Bicyclic [1,2,3]triazolo[4,5-b]pyridines (US Patent No. 6,406,715). U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. More… ↓ ⤷ Start Trial

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Details for Patent: 6,406,715

Summary for Patent: 6,406,715