Cumulative Differential Assay for DNA Sequence Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying DNA sequences in chemical assays, such as PCR, face inefficiencies and inaccuracies due to distortions in fluorescence measurements caused by sensor variations, electrical noise, and other factors, leading to incorrect identification of DNA samples.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for cumulative differential chemical assay identification that calculates pairwise differences between fluorescence values from a test sample and a reference sample, using a cumulative index to correct distortions and determine similarity based on proximity standards, enabling accurate identification of DNA sequences despite measurement inaccuracies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional fluorescence measurement methods are used to identify DNA sequences, then the identification process is simple and rapid, but measurement distortions from sensor variations and electrical noise lead to incorrect identification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that mediates between the raw fluorescence measurements and the final DNA identification. This system calculates cumulative differential values by comparing test sample fluorescence against reference samples, effectively filtering out sensor variations and electrical noise before reaching the identification decision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously comparing measured fluorescence values against reference values and adjusting the cumulative differential calculation accordingly. The system uses the difference between expected and actual measurements to correct for distortions, creating a self-correcting measurement process that improves reliability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple reference samples are compared to correct for measurement variations, then measurement accuracy improves, but the complexity of the identification process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically calculating cumulative differential values and making identification decisions without requiring manual intervention. The computer automatically processes multiple reference comparisons, calculates differences, and determines DNA sequence identity, reducing operational complexity despite the sophisticated analysis performed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the complex multi-sample comparison problem into a simplified cumulative differential parameter. By changing from direct fluorescence value comparison to cumulative differential value comparison, the system maintains high measurement precision while reducing the complexity of the final identification step.
3Reliability
If cumulative differential calculation is performed to correct distortions, then identification accuracy improves, but the calculation time and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing reference fluorescence values and their cumulative differential relationships. When a test sample is analyzed, the system compares against pre-processed reference data, significantly reducing the time required for real-time identification while maintaining high reliability through the cumulative differential correction method.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the accuracy of DNA sequence identification by correcting measurement distortions and improving the reliability of chemical assay comparisons, allowing for precise classification of DNA samples even in the presence of noise and variations.
Implementation Method 1
The identification typically involves introduction of fluorescently active agents that emit or quench fluorescent light when connected in a weak bond, say to a specific DNA sequence, when disconnected from the weak bond, etc.
Implementation Method 2
the tube is heated and photometers are used to measure fluorescent light in the reaction tube as a function of temperature
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus comprising: a value receiver, configured to receive fluorescence values measured during a chemical reaction involving a test sample, each value pertaining to a respective physical parameter value, a difference calculator, configured to calculate differences, each difference being between respective one of the measured fluorescence values and one of reference fluorescence values of a reference sample, each reference fluorescence value pertaining to a respective physical parameter value, a cumulative index calculator, configured to calculate a cumulative index, by selecting a first difference among the calculated differences, and selecting and adding to the first difference differences, each one of the added differences being selected according to a proximity standard applied on each two differences selected in a sequence, the proximity standard being based on proximity of physical parameter values and difference size, and a similarity determiner, configured to determine similarity between the samples, using the calculated cumulative index.