pH-Dependent Release Mechanisms for Environmental Remediation and Monitoring
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel application of pH-dependent release mechanisms, originally developed for abuse-deterrent pharmaceutical compositions, to address pressing environmental challenges, including pollution, oil spills, wildfires, agricultural pests, and industrial wastewater treatment.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed pH-dependent release mechanisms for abuse-deterrent pharmaceutical compositions. However, the limitations of this technology were confined to pharmaceutical applications. The new inventive concept addresses the pressing need for innovative solutions to environmental problems by adapting the core technology to novel use cases.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept leverages the pH-dependent release mechanism to encapsulate remediation agents, pesticides, fire-suppressing agents, or other environmentally beneficial substances. These agents are released in response to specific pH levels indicative of environmental pollution, oil spills, wildfires, pest presence, or wastewater contamination. The buffering ingredient retards the release of the acid soluble ingredient until the predetermined pH level is reached, ensuring targeted and controlled delivery of the remediation agents.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces a paradigm shift by applying the pH-dependent release mechanism to entirely new industries and problems, demonstrating a non-obvious and innovative adaptation of the original technology.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different types of buffering ingredients, acid soluble ingredients, or encapsulation materials. Variations could involve adapting the pH-dependent release mechanism for use in other environmental applications, such as monitoring and controlling air pollution or detecting and responding to natural disasters.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The new inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various environmental industries, including pollution remediation, oil spill response, wildfire management, agricultural pest control, and industrial wastewater treatment. The market for these applications is substantial, with growing demand for innovative, targeted, and environmentally responsible solutions.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61K47/02 |
| A | A61 | A61K9/2009 |
| A | A61 | A61K9/2027 |
| A | A61 | A61K9/2077 |
| A | A61 | A61K31/5517 |
| A | A61 | A61K47/32 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Pharmaceutical formulation and controlled release technologies, with expertise in drug delivery mechanisms, pH-dependent release systems, and environmental remediation technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced degrees in pharmaceutical sciences, chemical engineering, or materials science, possessing knowledge of controlled release mechanisms, buffering systems, and interdisciplinary applications of drug delivery technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the fundamental similarity between the source patent's pH-dependent pharmaceutical release mechanism and the PTD's environmental application as a straightforward technological translation. The core principle of controlled release triggered by specific pH conditions remains consistent across both contexts, suggesting an obvious extension of the original pharmaceutical technology to environmental monitoring and remediation systems.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,629 |
|---|---|
| Title | Methods and compositions for self-regulated release of active pharmaceutical ingredient |
| Assignee(s) | Acurx Pharmaceuticals, Inc. |