What is the Acarbose fermentation US Patent?
The U.S. patent concerning the fermentation process for acarbose is U.S. Patent No. 4,062,925 [1]. This patent, filed in 1976, covers a method for producing acarbose by cultivating microorganisms like Actinoplanes utahensis [1][2]. The fermentation process involves specific nutrient media and controlled conditions to yield the desired active pharmaceutical ingredient [1].
When does the Acarbose fermentation patent expire?
While the original U.S. Patent No. 4,062,925 for the acarbose fermentation process was granted in 1977, its initial term has long since expired [1]. Pharmaceutical patents typically have a term of 20 years from the filing date, with potential extensions. Information on specific patent expiry dates for older patents like this can be found on specialized databases [3].
What is Acarbose used for?
Acarbose is an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor used to manage type 2 diabetes [4]. It works by slowing down the digestion of carbohydrates in the small intestine, which helps to reduce post-meal blood glucose spikes [4][5].
How does Acarbose fermentation differ from other production methods?
Fermentation is a biological process that uses microorganisms to produce acarbose. Other methods might involve different chemical synthesis routes, which could have varying yields, purity profiles, and environmental impacts [1]. The '925 patent specifically details a microbial fermentation pathway [1].
Are there other patents related to Acarbose?
Beyond the initial fermentation patent, there can be subsequent patents covering aspects such as improved fermentation strains, purification methods, specific formulations, or new therapeutic uses of acarbose [3]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks a range of patents related to pharmaceuticals, including those for active ingredients like acarbose and their manufacturing processes [3].
Who developed the Acarbose fermentation process?
The fermentation process for acarbose was developed by researchers at Miles Laboratories, Inc. [1][2]. This work led to the patent filing and subsequent grant of U.S. Patent No. 4,062,925 [1].
What is the mechanism of action for Acarbose?
Acarbose acts by competitively inhibiting alpha-glucosidase enzymes in the brush border of the small intestine. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into monosaccharides for absorption. By inhibiting these enzymes, acarbose delays carbohydrate digestion and absorption, leading to a more gradual rise in blood glucose levels after meals [4][5].
Sources
1. US Patent 4062925A
2. US Patent 4062925A Google Patents
3. DrugPatentWatch.com
4. Acarbose - FDA
5. Acarbose: Mechanism of Action - NIH