AI Base Calling for Reordered NGS Index Sequences

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Solution Overview

Problem

Index misassignment between multiplexed libraries in next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies complicates data analysis, as existing methods struggle with increased throughput and accuracy in base calling of index sequences.

Innovation Solution

Employing a neural network-based base caller that utilizes reordering of sequencing images and a specialized architecture to segregate processing of data for different sequencing cycles, combined with training on reordered image sets to enhance accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing base calling methods are used for multiplexed libraries, then processing speed is maintained, but base calling accuracy and handling of index sequence complexity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebase calling accuracyVSAvoidprocessing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the base calling process by implementing separate processing pipelines for different sequencing cycles and index sequences. The neural network architecture processes each index sequence independently through dedicated layers, allowing accurate handling of complex multiplexed libraries while maintaining efficient parallel processing throughput.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the input data by reordering sequencing images and adjusting processing parameters to optimize both accuracy and throughput. The neural network dynamically adjusts its processing based on the complexity of index sequences, changing operational parameters to handle varying levels of multiplexing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If traditional demultiplexing methods are used, then computational complexity is reduced, but index misassignment between multiplexed libraries increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindex assignment accuracyVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical demultiplexing algorithms with an artificial intelligence-based neural network system. This substitution enables the system to accurately resolve index misassignment issues in multiplexed libraries by learning complex patterns in sequencing data, achieving high reliability despite increased computational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The neural network acts as an intermediary between raw sequencing data and final demultiplexing results. It processes index sequences through multiple layers of computation, including specialized handling of index reads and target reads, to produce accurate library assignments while managing computational complexity through optimized architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If neural network processing is applied to all sequencing data, then base calling accuracy improves, but processing time and computational resources increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebase calling accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies neural network processing selectively rather than uniformly to all sequencing data. The system identifies and applies intensive AI-based base calling primarily to index sequences and complex regions, while using more efficient methods for simpler data portions, thereby improving accuracy where needed without proportionally increasing overall processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary processing and filtering of sequencing data before applying the full neural network model. By pre-processing images and identifying key features in advance, the system reduces the computational burden on the neural network, maintaining high accuracy while minimizing additional processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12530882B2Efficient artificial intelligence-based base calling of index sequences
Publication Date: 2026.01.20 ILLUMINA INC
  • US12530882B2 patent drawing
  • US12530882B2 patent drawing
  • US12530882B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Techniques for improving artificial intelligence-based base calling are disclosed. The improved techniques can be used to better train artificial intelligence for base calling by reordering of sequencing images, and training of a neural network-based base caller where the temporal logic is effectively “frozen” (or bypassed). In addition, the improved techniques include various combinations, including, for example, combining “normalization” of sequencing images with reordering of sequencing images and/or with effectively “freezing” the temporal logic.