Genomic Coverage Bias Reduction via Normalization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for characterizing genomic samples face challenges in accurately determining copy number profiles due to biases caused by label density and other factors, particularly in identifying genetic abnormalities such as aneuploidy and structural variations.

Innovation Solution

The method involves labeling sample molecules, translocating them through a fluidic channel, and using normalization techniques like Global Renormalization of Optical Maps (GROM) and Single MOlecule Normalization to Detect Aberrations (SIMONIDA) to minimize biases, generating copy number profiles that accurately reflect genomic content.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If normalization techniques are applied to minimize bias in coverage measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecopy number profile accuracyVSAvoidnormalization process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary normalization actions to the coverage depth data before final analysis. By pre-scaling and normalizing the coverage depths using reference data and statistical models, the system eliminates biases from label density variations and molecular length differences beforehand, ensuring accurate copy number profile generation without requiring complex real-time corrections during measurement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediary reference data and statistical models as mediators between the raw coverage measurements and the final copy number profiles. These intermediaries include reference genomes, control samples, and normalization algorithms that bridge the gap between biased measurements and accurate biological interpretations, enabling precise measurement without directly modifying the measurement device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Manufacturing precision

If comprehensive normalization by multiple factors is performed, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecopy number profile generation accuracyVSAvoidnormalization processing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the normalization process into distinct, independent steps: (1) scaling coverage depths to remove chromosomes, (2) normalizing by molecular length characteristics, (3) normalizing by label density, and (4) generating copy number profiles. Each segment can be processed independently and optimized separately, reducing overall processing time while maintaining comprehensive normalization accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes parameters such as coverage depth scaling factors, molecular length distributions, and label density metrics to transform raw data into normalized profiles. By dynamically adjusting these parameters based on reference data and sample characteristics, the system achieves high manufacturing precision through automated parameter optimization rather than manual intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS20240093269A1Reduction of bias in genomic coverage measurements
Publication Date: 2024.03.21 BIONANO GENOMICS INC
  • US20240093269A1 patent drawing
  • US20240093269A1 patent drawing
  • US20240093269A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods are provided for detecting and quantitating molecules using fluidics. In some embodiments, the methods comprise minimizing or eliminating biases caused by label density, or minimizing or eliminated biases caused by factors other than label density. In some embodiments, the methods comprise automated identification of genetic structural variation. In some embodiments, the methods comprise analyzing blood to detect the presence of circulating DNA or cells from a fetus or tumor.