Error-Tolerant Barcode Sequencing for Multiplex Sample Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nucleic acid sequencing technologies face challenges in efficiently preparing and identifying complex samples, particularly in multiplex sequencing, where errors in barcode reading can lead to incorrect sample identification and interpretation.
Innovation Solution
The development of methods, systems, and kits that utilize error-tolerant sample discriminating codes or barcodes, which are designed to correct errors during sequencing, allowing for the simultaneous analysis of multiple samples by embedding unique codes within the samples and using error-correcting codes to ensure accurate identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiplex sequencing is performed to increase throughput, then productivity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to barcode reading errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by designing and incorporating error-correcting codes into barcodes before the sequencing process. The barcodes are pre-configured with redundant information and error correction algorithms embedded, allowing the system to anticipate and correct potential reading errors without requiring re-sequencing, thus maintaining high throughput while ensuring accurate sample identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms by using error-correcting codes that provide verification and correction capabilities during barcode reading. The system reads barcodes, checks them against the embedded error correction algorithms, and automatically corrects identified errors, creating a feedback loop that ensures measurement precision is maintained even when processing multiple samples simultaneously.
2Reliability
If error-correcting codes are incorporated into barcodes to improve reliability, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the structure and composition of barcodes to include error-correcting code parameters. The barcodes are designed with specific redundant data fields, parity bits, and correction algorithms embedded within the sequence itself. This changes the parameters of the barcode from simple unique identifiers to structured codes with built-in verification capabilities, improving reliability while managing complexity through systematic design.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for sequencing a polynucleotide sample having a barcode sequence, includes: introducing a series of nucleotides to the polynucleotide sample according to a predetermined flow ordering; obtaining a series of signals resulting from the introducing of nucleotides to the polynucleotide sample; and resolving the series of signals over the barcode sequence to render a flowspace string, wherein the flowspace string is a codeword of an error-tolerant code capable of distinguishing the barcode sequence from other barcode sequences in the presence of one or more errors.