Fusion Molecules for Detecting Novel Cancer-Associated Genetic Lesions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies lack effective methods for identifying and targeting novel genetic lesions associated with various cancers, such as B cell cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and pancreatic cancer, which are characterized by complex chromosome structural aberrations.

Innovation Solution

The discovery and characterization of novel rearrangement events leading to fusion molecules, including fragments of genes like FGFR3 and TACC3, which are expressed in cancer tissues and can be used to develop compositions and methods for detecting, assessing, and treating cancers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If current technologies are used for identifying genetic lesions, then existing detection methods can be applied, but they lack effectiveness for novel genetic lesions associated with cancers

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveeffectiveness of detectionVSAvoidapplicability to novel genetic lesions

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the detection approach by identifying specific fusion molecules (e.g., FGFR3-TACC3, TRIM24-BRAF, CNTL-RAF1) as distinct targets. Each fusion molecule represents a segmented genetic lesion that can be detected independently, allowing the detection system to handle novel genetic lesions that differ from conventional cancer markers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses fusion molecules as intermediary targets that bridge the gap between conventional detection methods and novel genetic lesions. By detecting the fusion event itself (the intermediary) rather than requiring direct detection of the underlying chromosomal aberration, the system achieves effectiveness for novel lesions while using established molecular detection technologies.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If fusion molecules are used to target cancers, then therapeutic interventions can be developed, but the complexity of identifying and characterizing novel rearrangement events increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedevelopment of therapeutic interventionsVSAvoidcomplexity of identifying rearrangement events

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary identification and characterization of fusion molecules (FGFR3-TACC3, TRIM24-BRAF, CNTL-RAF1) before developing therapeutic interventions. By pre-characterizing these fusion events and their association with specific cancers, the patent simplifies subsequent drug development efforts, as the targets are already defined and validated.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent identifies fusion molecules that have universal applicability across multiple cancer types (B cell cancer, lung cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer). This multi-functionality allows a single detection and treatment approach to address novel genetic lesions in various cancers, reducing the overall complexity of developing cancer therapies.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250333479A1Novel fusion molecules and uses thereof

Publication Date: 2025.10.30 FOUNDATION MEDICINE INC

AI summary

Novel fusion molecules and uses are disclosed.