Genome-Wide CNV Detection via Array CGH and Sequencing Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting copy-number variations (CNVs) are limited by measurement noise and resolution, resulting in incomplete understanding of normal CNVs, which can lead to false associations with diseases or drug responses, and lack comprehensive population sampling, hindering accurate interpretation of genetic variants.

Innovation Solution

A method involving genome-wide screening for copy-number variants, comparison with large datasets, and sequencing to identify causative genetic biomarkers, using techniques like array CGH, genotyping microarrays, and sequencing, to determine statistical significance and functional impact of CNVs, enabling accurate diagnosis and drug response prediction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If array CGH or genotyping microarrays are used to detect copy number variants, then genome-wide coverage is achieved, but measurement noise and resolution limitations prevent detection of smaller genomic segments

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegenome coverageVSAvoiddetection resolution
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the genome into progressively smaller analysis units by combining array CGH/microarray data with sequencing data. The method identifies candidate regions from array data, then applies sequencing to resolve smaller genomic segments and variants within those regions, effectively segmenting the analysis into coarse and fine resolution stages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a single-dimension approach (array CGH or microarrays alone) to a multi-dimensional approach by integrating multiple data types: array CGH signals, microarray genotyping data, and sequencing reads. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous assessment of copy number, genotype, and sequence variation at the same genomic loci.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If current CNV detection methods are used, then some copy number polymorphisms are detected, but normal variations are falsely associated with diseases or drug responses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisease association accuracyVSAvoidnormal variation context
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary characterization of copy number variants in normal populations before conducting disease association studies. By establishing baseline frequencies and patterns of CNVs in healthy individuals first, the method creates a reference framework that enables accurate distinction between normal variation and pathogenic variants in subsequent disease cohorts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where sequencing results from disease cohorts are continuously compared against the established normal variation database. This feedback loop refines the understanding of pathogenic versus benign variants and updates the reference framework, improving diagnostic accuracy over time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If comprehensive population sampling is performed, then accurate interpretation of genetic variants is enabled, but the magnitude of genetic variants requires sophisticated analysis tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevariant interpretation accuracyVSAvoidanalysis tool sophistication
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and isolates specific signal features from complex genomic data by focusing on copy number variant regions identified through array CGH and microarrays. Rather than analyzing the entire genome uniformly, the method extracts candidate CNV regions and applies targeted sequencing and specialized algorithms to those specific loci, simplifying the overall analysis pipeline.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary bioinformatic processing and filtering of genomic data to identify candidate CNV regions before applying more sophisticated analysis tools. This preliminary action reduces the data volume and complexity that subsequent analysis tools must handle, making comprehensive population studies more tractable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Quantity of substance

If array CGH is used for copy number detection, then large segment polymorphisms are detected, but detection is restricted to genomic segments of many kilobases or larger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecopy number variant detectionVSAvoiddetectable genomic segment size
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the genome into progressively smaller analysis units by combining array CGH/microarray data with sequencing data. The method identifies candidate regions from array data, then applies sequencing to resolve smaller genomic segments and variants within those regions, effectively segmenting the analysis into coarse and fine resolution stages.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses sequencing technology as an intermediary tool that bridges the gap between array CGH/microarray detection and small variant identification. Sequencing serves as a mediator that can detect both large copy number changes and small genomic variants, combining the strengths of different approaches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11788142B2Compositions and methods for discovery of causative mutations in genetic disorders
Publication Date: 2023.10.17 POPULATION BIO INC
  • US11788142B2 patent drawing
  • US11788142B2 patent drawing
  • US11788142B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The compositions and methods provided herein allow for identification of causative genetic biomarkers for a disease condition or drug response.