Double-Strand Sequencing via Inter-Strand Cross-Linking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for sequencing double stranded nucleic acids face challenges in accurately sequencing both strands without using hairpin adapters, which can increase complexity, sample preparation time, and risk contamination, while conventional techniques often discard information from the complementary strand.

Innovation Solution

Forming an inter-strand cross-link between the strands of a double stranded nucleic acid using a cross-linking agent, followed by sequencing the cross-linked construct with a single molecule technique, allowing enzymes to process both strands sequentially.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If hairpin adapters are used to sequence both strands of double stranded nucleic acid, then both strands can be sequenced, but device complexity and sample preparation time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesequencing information from complementary strandVSAvoidcomplexity of sequencing process
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and removes the hairpin adapter component from the sequencing system. Instead of using hairpin adapters to link strands, the method sequences each strand independently after denaturation, eliminating the adapter-related complexity while still achieving comprehensive sequencing of both strands.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The sequencing process is segmented into independent steps: denaturation of double-stranded nucleic acid into separate single strands, followed by independent sequencing of each strand. This segmentation removes the need for complex adapter-based linking while ensuring both strands are sequenced.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Loss of information

If hairpin adapters are used to sequence both strands, then both strands can be sequenced, but sample preparation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesequencing information from complementary strandVSAvoidsample preparation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The hairpin adapter attachment step is extracted and removed from the sample preparation workflow. The method directly sequences denatured strands without requiring adapter ligation, significantly reducing preparation time while maintaining complete sequencing coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The denaturation step is performed as a preliminary action before sequencing, separating the strands in advance. This allows each strand to be sequenced independently without requiring time-consuming adapter attachment, streamlining the overall process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of information

If hairpin adapters are used to sequence both strands, then both strands can be sequenced, but risk of contamination increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesequencing information from complementary strandVSAvoidcontamination risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The hairpin adapter component is removed from the system, eliminating the contamination risk associated with adapter attachment and handling. The method achieves dual-strand sequencing through independent processing of denatured strands, reducing potential contamination points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Ease of manufacture

If conventional sequencing methods are used, then sequencing can be performed, but information from complementary strand is discarded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of sequencing processVSAvoidsequence information from second strand
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The sequencing process is divided into independent sequencing reactions for each strand. After denaturation separates the double-stranded nucleic acid into individual strands, each strand undergoes sequencing independently, ensuring that information from both strands is captured without requiring complex adapter-based methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Provides orthogonal proof-reading sequence information and reduces the need for hairpin adapters, simplifying the process and minimizing contamination risks while enhancing sequencing accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

forming an inter-strand cross-link between the first and second strands of the target double stranded nucleic acid by exposing the target double stranded nucleic acid to a cross-linking agent

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCross-linking: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentEP4061961B1Method for double strand sequencing
Publication Date: 2026.04.08 OXFORD NANOPORE TECH LTD
  • EP4061961B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1D
  • EP4061961B1 patent drawingFigure 2(a)~2(c)
  • EP4061961B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3C

AI summary

Provided herein is a method of sequencing a target double stranded nucleic acid. The method comprises contacting the double stranded nucleic acid with a reagent as described herein to form a construct and sequencing the construct using a single-molecule sequencing technique as described herein. Associated products and kits are further provided.