Multi-Step Dynamic Binding Model for Sex Hormone Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for diagnosing and treating sex hormone disorders, such as testosterone and estrogen deficiencies, are flawed due to inaccuracies in measuring free sex hormone levels, particularly due to the prevailing model of sex hormone binding to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), leading to complexities and concerns about accuracy and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A new multi-step dynamic binding model with complex allostery is introduced, which accurately calculates free testosterone and estrogen levels by considering specific SHBG-Sex Hormone interactions, including interconverting microstates of unliganded SHBG dimers and allosteric interactions, using a computer-implemented method to determine free sex hormone concentrations from total SHBG, sex hormone, and albumin concentrations in biological samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the prevailing model of sex hormone binding to SHBG is used for measurement, then the measurement process is simplified, but the accuracy and reliability of free sex hormone level determination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the binding parameters by considering multiple binding sites on SHBG with different affinities (Kd1, Kd2) instead of a single binding site model. This allows for more accurate calculation of free hormone levels by accounting for the complex binding dynamics between sex hormones and SHBG, resolving the contradiction between measurement simplicity and accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If direct measurement methods for free testosterone are used, then measurement accuracy may be improved, but experimental complexity and methodological concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses total testosterone, total SHBG, and albumin concentrations as intermediary measurements to calculate free testosterone levels through a mathematical model. This approach avoids the experimental complexities of direct free testosterone measurement methods while still providing accurate results by using readily measurable parameters as mediators in the calculation process.
3Reliability
If the multi-step dynamic binding model with complex allostery is implemented, then the accuracy and reliability of sex hormone level measurement is improved, but the computational complexity and model complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the binding process into distinct steps with different binding sites (first binding site with affinity Kd1, second binding site with affinity Kd2) and microstates (unliganded, singly-liganded, doubly-liganded). This segmentation allows the complex binding dynamics to be modeled systematically through separate equilibrium relationships, improving reliability while making the complexity manageable through structured calculation.
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 provides greater accuracy and reliability in measuring sex hormone levels, enabling more precise diagnosis and treatment of sex hormone disorders by accurately determining free testosterone and estrogen concentrations, thereby improving the management of conditions like hypogonadism and estrogen imbalances.
Implementation Method 1
A new multi-step dynamic binding model with complex allostery is introduced, which accurately calculates free testosterone and estrogen levels by considering specific SHBG-Sex Hormone interactions, including interconverting microstates of unliganded SHBG dimers and allosteric interactions
Data Source
AI summary
The technology described herein is directed to the diagnosis and treatment of sex hormone disorders and/or deficiencies, such as estrogen and/or testosterone disorders and/or deficiencies.