Bead-Based Nucleic Acid Indexing With Click-Ligation Barcodes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current bead-based nucleic acid sequencing methods face challenges in efficiently handling high sample densities, requiring arduous processes and specialized equipment for decoding bead locations, and introducing invariant bases that decrease read quality.

Innovation Solution

A method involving chemical ligation of different indexes to polynucleotides attached to beads, using click chemistry to form modified backbone linkages, allowing for combinatorial indexing with reduced invariant bases and efficient sequencing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If single index systems are used for bead-based nucleic acids, then the system is simple to operate, but the indexing capacity is limited and cannot handle large-scale experiments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindexing capacityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the indexing system into multiple independent index positions (first index position, second index position, etc.) on each bead. Each position can carry different indexing information, allowing the system to handle large-scale experiments by segmenting the indexing capacity across multiple locations rather than relying on a single limited index system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements nested indexing where multiple levels of indexing information are combined within a single bead system. First indexes and second indexes are nested together on the same bead, with each providing different dimensions of indexing capability. This nested structure exponentially increases the total indexing capacity while maintaining a unified bead-based platform.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple indexes per bead are implemented, then the indexing capacity increases, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring indexes increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindexing capacityVSAvoidindex detection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses color-coded or fluorescence-coded indexes at different positions on the beads. Each index position can be detected by its specific color or fluorescence signal, allowing automated detection systems to easily distinguish and read multiple indexes on a single bead without cross-interference. The optical properties of different indexes provide natural detection cues.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual or mechanical index reading methods with optical detection systems. Fluorescence or color-based indexes can be rapidly scanned and detected by automated imaging systems, eliminating the need for complex mechanical manipulation or manual interpretation of multiple indexes on each bead.

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

3Quantity of substance

If combinatorial indexing is used to increase capacity, then the number of beads required decreases, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of beadsVSAvoidindex placement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes predetermined, standardized positions for multiple indexes on each bead during the manufacturing process. By pre-defining where each index should be placed (first index position, second index position, etc.), the manufacturing process can use automated positioning and deposition methods that ensure consistent placement accuracy, reducing the overall precision burden while maintaining combinatorial indexing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal bead platform with standardized index positions that can accommodate different indexing schemes and experimental configurations. This universality allows the same manufacturing process to produce beads with consistent multi-position indexing capabilities, reducing the need for high-precision custom manufacturing for each specific application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4359557B1Methods and compositions for combinatorial indexing of bead-based nucleic acids
Publication Date: 2026.05.20 ILLUMINA INC
  • EP4359557B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4359557B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4359557B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Some embodiments relate to methods and compositions for preparing combinatorially indexed beads. Some embodiments include sequential addition of different indexes to polynucleotides attached to beads. In some embodiments, indexes are added by chemical ligation, polymerase extension, ligation of partially double-stranded adaptors, or short splint ligation.