Genomic Morse Code for Macromolecule Region Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting and distinguishing multiple regions on macromolecules, such as DNA, are limited by the number of differentiable markers, which restricts simultaneous marking and detection, especially when dealing with a large number of regions, as they rely on varying lengths and limited numbers of detectable elements.

Innovation Solution

A method involving the design of labeled probes that form specific sequences of codes, using 'dots' and 'dashes' akin to Morse code, allowing for the unique identification of domains on a macromolecule by forming specific signatures through the binding of probes, enabling the detection of multiple regions with a limited number of probe natures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If multiple different detectable elements (fluorochromes, probe lengths) are used to mark regions, then the number of distinguishable regions increases, but the complexity of detection methods and acquisition procedures increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of distinguishable regionsVSAvoiddetection method complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses probes of uniform length and identical detectable elements (fluorochromes) to mark multiple regions on the macromolecule. Instead of varying probe properties, the invention encodes region identity through the spatial sequence and spacing of identical probes, thereby maintaining detection simplicity while enabling distinction of many regions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #33Homogeneity

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from distinguishing regions by probe properties (color, length) to distinguishing regions by their positional arrangement in sequence. The one-dimensional spatial ordering of probes along the macromolecule becomes the encoding dimension, allowing unlimited region identification without increasing detection complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If probes of different lengths and natures are used to distinguish regions, then region identification capability improves, but the number of probe types and detection procedures increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveregion identification capabilityVSAvoidnumber of probe types
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

A single type of probe with uniform properties serves multiple functions: it marks regions, encodes information through spatial positioning, and enables detection. The same probe design can identify any region depending on its location in the sequence, eliminating the need for multiple specialized probe types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The macromolecule is divided into multiple target regions, each marked by a specific probe from the set. The sequence and spacing of these probes create a unique signature for each region, allowing identification through positional information rather than probe diversity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Quantity of substance

If multiple markers of different natures are used simultaneously, then the number of distinguishable domains increases, but the detection time and procedural complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of distinguishable domainsVSAvoiddetection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple region markers are merged into a unified detection system using identical probe types. All probes can be detected simultaneously using a single detection method, eliminating the need for sequential detection of different marker types and thereby reducing total detection time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 allows for the differentiation of a virtually infinite number of regions using a minimal number of probe natures, enhancing resolution and reducing detection time, while maintaining the ability to identify alterations such as mutations, and is applicable for high-resolution mapping of whole chromosomes.

Implementation Method 1

designing and obtaining corresponding labeled probes of each target region... binding of one set of at least three probes on the macromolecule forms a sequence of at least two codes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHybridization:

Data Source

PatentUS7985542B2Genomic morse code
Publication Date: 2011.07.26 GENOMIC VISION
  • US7985542B2 patent drawing
  • US7985542B2 patent drawing
  • US7985542B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method of detection of the presence of at least one domain of interest on a macromolecule to test, wherein said method comprises the following steps:a) determining beforehand at least two target regions on the domain of interest, designing and obtaining corresponding labeled probes of each target region, named set of probe of the domain of interest, the position of these probes one compared to the others being chosen and forming the specific signature of said domain of interest on the macromolecule to test;b) after spreading of the macromolecule to test on which the probes obtained in step a) are bound, detection of the position one compared to the others of the probes bound on the linearized macromolecule, the detection of the signature of a domain of interest indicating the presence of said domain of interest on the macromolecule to test, and conversely the absence of detection of signature or part of signature of a domain of interest indicating the absence of said domain or part of said domain of interest on the macromolecule to test.