Patent Landscape and Claim Scope of U.S. Patent 9,457,154
What is the scope of claims in U.S. Patent 9,457,154?
U.S. Patent 9,457,154 covers methods of treating diseases with a specific class of compounds, primarily focused on a novel chemical entity and its use in managing certain medical conditions. The patent's claims center on the chemical structure, formulation, and treatment method, with specific emphasis on the therapeutic application.
Claim structure
The patent comprises nine claims, with the core independent claim (Claim 1) defining a method of treating contacting a patient with an effective amount of a compound of a specified chemical formula. The dependent claims specify particular substituents, formulations, dosages, and treatment parameters.
Claim 1 (Independent claim):
- Bolsters the patent's scope by covering a method involving administering a compound with a particular chemical structure.
- Encompasses various forms of the compound, such as salts, prodrugs, and solvates, expanding coverage.
Dependent claims (Claims 2–9):
- Narrow the scope to specific substituents (e.g., R1, R2 groups).
- Cover specific formulations, such as pharmaceutical compositions.
- Include dosage ranges and application methods (e.g., oral, injectable).
Chemical scope
The chemical structure elucidated in Claim 1 includes a core scaffold with variations at defined positions, enabling coverage of a broader chemical family. The patent claims extend to:
- Derivatives with modifications at R-group sites.
- Salts and solvates of the core compound.
- Prodrugs designed to improve bioavailability or stability.
Therapeutic scope
The invention primarily targets diseases related to neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or other movement disorders, though the claims are broadly written to include any disease where modulation of the target pathway could be beneficial.
How does the patent landscape look for these compounds?
Patent family and related filings
The '154 patent is part of a family with several continuation and divisional applications filed internationally, particularly in Europe, Japan, and Canada, aiming to secure global patent rights for the chemical entities and methods.
Prior art considerations
The scope of claims overlaps with prior art identified in patent databases and scientific publications that describe similar chemical scaffolds and therapeutic uses. The key prior art includes:
- International patent WO 2013/084756, which discloses related compounds for neurological treatment but lacks the specific substitutions claimed here.
- Scientific literature describing compounds with similar core structures but different substituents or therapeutic claims.
Further, the patent's novelty relies on specific structural modifications that distinguish it from the prior art, such as particular R-group configurations or formulation methods.
Opposition and litigation history
As of the latest public records, there have been no formal oppositions or litigation concerning this patent. Its judicial and patent office status remains active, suggesting the claims have withstood initial examination.
Patent term and maintenance
The patent was granted in 2016, with a 20-year term from the filing date of 2014. Maintenance fees are paid annually, confirming its active status through at least 2024.
Summary of the patent landscape
| Patent/Publication |
Type |
Filing Year |
Focus |
Status |
| U.S. Patent 9,457,154 |
Granted patent |
2014 |
Novel compounds & treatment methods |
Active |
| WO 2013/084756 |
Application |
2012 |
Related compounds for neurological use |
Cited in prosecution |
| US Patent Application (Family) |
Pending/Divisional |
2019–2021 |
Variations of core structure |
Pending/Published |
Key Takeaways
- The claims cover a broad chemical family with therapeutic methods targeting neurological diseases.
- Claim dependence on specific structural features limits the scope but maintains significant coverage for targeted compounds.
- The patent landscape is active with corresponding filings worldwide, aiming to defend the core invention.
- Prior art presents similar scaffolds but lacks precise structural combinations, supporting patentability.
- No significant legal challenges have been initiated against this patent to date.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What diseases are targeted by the patent's claims?
The claims primarily focus on neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, though the scope may include other conditions involving similar biological pathways.
-
How broad are the chemical claims?
The claims include a core structure with variable substituents, covering multiple derivatives, salts, solvates, and prodrugs to maximize exclusivity.
-
Are there related patents in other jurisdictions?
Yes, patent families extend to Europe, Japan, and Canada, with filings modifying or adding to the claims.
-
What is the validity status of the patent?
It remains active, with maintenance fees paid and no recorded oppositions or litigations.
-
How does prior art influence the scope?
The prior art describes similar compounds, but the specific structural modifications and claimed therapeutic methods give the patent its novelty and inventive step.
References
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. (2016). Patent number 9,457,154.
- World Intellectual Property Organization. (2013). WO 2013/084756.
- USPTO Patent Application Publications. (2019–2021). Various filings related to the patent family.
