Gamete Breeding Value Estimation Using Linkage Disequilibrium

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing breeding technologies cannot predict the genotypic outcome of matings due to Mendelian segregation, limiting the ability to produce offspring with extreme breeding values.

Innovation Solution

Estimate the distribution or standard deviation of breeding values or predicted transmitting abilities (PTAs) of gametes using population-wide estimates of linkage disequilibrium for genetic markers or genes, independent of genotype imputation or recombination information, to optimize breeding programs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional breeding methods are used without genomic information, then breeding programs are simpler and less costly, but the ability to predict and produce offspring with extreme breeding values is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprediction accuracy of breeding valuesVSAvoidbreeding program complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The method performs preliminary estimation of gamete breeding value distribution before mating occurs. By calculating the distribution of breeding values in gametes using genomic information and linkage disequilibrium estimates, the system predicts which matings are most likely to produce offspring with extreme breeding values, allowing proactive selection rather than reactive evaluation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces traditional mechanical/physical breeding selection methods with computational estimation. Instead of relying on phenotypic observation and simple pedigree analysis, the system uses genomic data, linkage disequilibrium estimates, and statistical modeling to predict breeding value distributions, substituting computational analysis for traditional breeding mechanics

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If genomic information and linkage disequilibrium estimates are used to estimate gamete variation, then the likelihood of producing offspring with extreme breeding values increases, but the computational complexity and data requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveefficiency of producing superior offspringVSAvoidestimation method complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The method uses linkage disequilibrium estimates as an intermediary between genomic marker data and breeding value prediction. Rather than directly analyzing complex genomic relationships and recombination events, the system leverages pre-computed linkage disequilibrium metrics from the population to simplify the estimation of gamete breeding value distributions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the parameter space by working with distribution characteristics (mean, variance, standard deviation) of breeding values rather than individual breeding value predictions. This parametric approach simplifies the computational problem by focusing on key statistical properties that determine the likelihood of producing extreme offspring

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If selection is based on estimated standard deviation of breeding values, then individuals with higher gamete variability are selected, but this may overlook individuals with moderate variability but higher average breeding values

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegamete breeding value variabilityVSAvoidoverall breeding value accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The method adds a new dimension to breeding value evaluation by considering the distribution of breeding values in gametes, not just the mean breeding value. By analyzing the variance and standard deviation of breeding values across gametes, the system creates a multi-dimensional selection criterion that captures both the average genetic merit and the potential for producing extreme offspring

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS12531135B2Methods of estimating gamete variation

Publication Date: 2026.01.20 INGURAN LLC

AI summary

The invention encompasses a method of estimating a distribution or a standard deviation of breeding values or predicted transmitting abilities of gametes from an individual using population-wide estimates of linkage disequilibrium for one or more genetic markers or genes, so as to more efficiently produce offspring having breeding values or predicted transmitting abilities that equal or exceed a desired breeding value or predicted transmitting ability.