Allelic Dropout Detection Using Support Vector Machine

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for interpreting DNA samples, particularly in low template DNA analysis, face challenges in accurately detecting and assessing allelic dropout, which can lead to erroneous conclusions due to stochastic effects and technology limitations.

Innovation Solution

A machine learning approach using a support vector machine algorithm to probabilistically infer allelic dropout by analyzing categorical and quantitative data from DNA samples, enabling rapid and cost-effective detection on conventional hardware.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional thresholding methods are used to analyze DNA samples, then the analysis process is simple and fast, but the accuracy of allelic dropout detection is insufficient leading to erroneous conclusions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of allelic dropout detectionVSAvoidcomplexity of analysis method
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical thresholding methods with a machine learning-based electronic classification system. The support vector machine algorithm processes DNA peak data electronically, substituting simple threshold comparisons with sophisticated pattern recognition that accounts for multiple parameters simultaneously, thereby improving detection accuracy without proportionally increasing operational complexity

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

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes from analyzing single-parameter threshold values to evaluating multiple parameters simultaneously (peak heights, peak areas, allele frequencies, and their relationships). This multi-parameter approach allows the system to detect allelic dropout patterns that single-threshold methods miss, improving measurement precision by considering the interrelationships between different DNA analysis parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If more components and metrics are used to predict allelic dropout, then the accuracy of detection improves, but the computational complexity and resource requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of allelic dropout detectionVSAvoidcomputational resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary data processing and feature extraction before the main classification step. By pre-calculating relevant metrics (peak heights, areas, ratios) and organizing data into standardized formats, the system reduces the computational burden during the actual machine learning inference, allowing accurate multi-parameter analysis without proportionally increasing real-time resource consumption

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses a trained support vector model that captures complex relationships from training data. Once trained, the model serves as a compact representation that can rapidly classify new samples without re-processing all original training features, enabling accurate prediction with reduced computational resources during actual analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Ease of manufacture

If machine learning algorithms are implemented on conventional hardware, then the cost and computational requirements are reduced, but the processing speed and performance may be limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecost-effectiveness of implementationVSAvoidprocessing speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and implements only the essential classification functionality needed for allelic dropout detection, rather than deploying full-featured machine learning frameworks. By implementing a streamlined support vector machine algorithm optimized for this specific task, the system achieves sufficient processing speed on conventional hardware while maintaining high accuracy, avoiding the overhead of more complex computational systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS20200202982A1Methods and systems for assessing the presence of allelic dropout using machine learning algorithms
Publication Date: 2020.06.25 SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
  • US20200202982A1 patent drawing
  • US20200202982A1 patent drawing
  • US20200202982A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system configured to characterize the probability of any allele dropout in the sequence of DNA extracted from a sample. The system includes a sample preparation module that can generate sequence data about any DNA within the sample, a processor that is programmed to receive the sequence data and determine the probability of allelic dropout in the sequence data, and an output device that provides the determination of allele dropout to a user of the system.