Algebraic Phasing of Polyploid Haplotypes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining haplotypes in polyploid organisms, which have multiple copies of the same chromosome, are inefficient in identifying parent chromosomes with desirable traits, as they rely on statistical estimation and are not effective in resolving complex genetic data from polyploid samples.

Innovation Solution

A computer-based algebraic phasing system that processes a matrix of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using an algebraic phasing algorithm, applying rules to determine haplotypes by iteratively reducing ploidy levels and resolving variables, ultimately identifying the genetic makeup of parent organisms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If statistical estimation methods are used to determine haplotypes in polyploid organisms, then the process can be performed with existing computational tools, but the accuracy and effectiveness in resolving complex genetic data are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehaplotype determination accuracyVSAvoidcomputational method complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the haplotype determination problem from a statistical estimation approach to an algebraic solution by changing the mathematical parameters and methods used. Specifically, it formulates the problem using systems of linear equations over finite fields, where genetic data is represented as algebraic variables and constraints are expressed as equations. This parameter change enables exact solutions rather than probabilistic estimates, directly improving measurement precision for haplotype determination in polyploid organisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If algebraic phasing algorithms are applied to resolve complex genetic data, then haplotype determination accuracy improves, but the computational complexity and processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegenetic data resolution effectivenessVSAvoidcomputational algorithm complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the complex algebraic phasing problem into manageable components by dividing the system of equations into smaller subsystems that can be solved independently or in a structured sequence. The method partitions genetic markers into groups and processes them through staged algebraic operations, reducing the computational burden while maintaining solution accuracy. This segmentation allows complex genetic data to be resolved effectively without requiring overwhelming computational resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate algebraic representations and auxiliary variables as mediators between the raw genetic data and the final haplotype solutions. These intermediate structures include algebraic codes, syndrome calculations, and iterative refinement variables that bridge the gap between complex input data and resolved haplotypes. The intermediary algebraic framework transforms intractable problems into solvable forms, improving reliability without directly processing the full complexity of the original data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Loss of information

If iterative algebraic rules are applied to reduce ploidy levels and resolve variables, then the ability to identify parent chromosomes with desirable traits improves, but the processing time and computational steps increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegenetic trait identification capabilityVSAvoidcomputational processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary algebraic transformations and pre-processing of genetic data before the main iterative phasing process. This includes initial encoding of genetic markers, pre-calculation of algebraic constraints, and preparation of data structures that facilitate faster iterative processing. By performing these preliminary actions, the method reduces the computational time required for subsequent iterative steps while preserving complete genetic information for accurate parent chromosome identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10176296B2Algebraic phasing of polyploids
Publication Date: 2019.01.08 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US10176296B2 patent drawing
  • US10176296B2 patent drawing
  • US10176296B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments of the present invention include method, systems and computer program products for algebraic phasing of polyploids. Aspects of the invention include receiving a matrix including a set of two or more single-nucleotide poloymorphisms (SNPs) for two or more sample organisms. Each row of the matrix is set to a ploidy based on a number of ploidies present in the two or more sample organisms. Each allele in the set of two or more SNPs is represented as a binary number. A set of algebraic rules is received, wherein the set of algebraic rules include an algebraic phasing algorithm. And the set of algebraic rules are applied to the matrix to determine a haplotype of a parent of the two or more sample organisms.