HER-2 Copy Number Variation Diagnosis via DNA Chip Analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current diagnostic methods for breast cancer caused by Her-2 copy number variations, such as IHC and FISH, are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and lack precision, requiring trained technicians and unable to quantify results, leading to unnecessary treatments and economic burdens.

Innovation Solution

A diagnostic technology using a marker specific to Her-2 copy number variations, employing BAC clones and array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) to quantify Her-2 gene amplification, allowing for rapid and precise diagnosis through DNA chip analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional diagnostic methods (IHC and FISH) are used to detect Her-2 gene amplification, then diagnosis can be performed, but the diagnostic process is time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnosis accuracyVSAvoiddiagnostic time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and isolates the specific Her-2 gene sequence from the complex genomic material, creating a targeted diagnostic approach. By focusing only on the relevant Her-2 gene region rather than analyzing entire genomes or using indirect protein markers, the method achieves rapid and accurate detection without the time-consuming steps required by conventional IHC and FISH methods

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the manual, technician-dependent FISH method with an automated DNA hybridization-based detection system. This substitution eliminates the need for skilled technicians to perform complex manual procedures while maintaining or improving diagnostic accuracy, thereby reducing both time loss and labor intensity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If conventional diagnostic methods (IHC and FISH) are used, then Her-2 amplification can be detected, but the results cannot be quantified and depend on technician determination

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnosis accuracyVSAvoidautomation level
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The diagnostic method enables self-service automation through standardized DNA hybridization protocols that automatically quantify Her-2 gene amplification. The system produces objective, quantifiable results without requiring technician interpretation or subjective determination, thereby increasing automation level while maintaining high diagnostic precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the degree of DNA hybridization is quantitatively measured and directly correlates with Her-2 gene amplification levels. This quantitative feedback provides objective diagnostic data that eliminates technician subjectivity and enables automated interpretation of results

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If conventional diagnostic methods are used, then diagnosis can be performed, but trained technicians are required and results cannot be quantified

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnosis accuracyVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential diagnostic function into a standardized DNA hybridization assay that can be performed with routine laboratory equipment. This extraction of the core diagnostic capability from complex manual procedures makes the method easier to operate while maintaining high accuracy through standardized protocols and automated quantification

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

4Reliability

If conventional diagnostic methods are used, then diagnosis can be performed, but unnecessary treatments are applied and economic burden increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediagnosis reliabilityVSAvoidtreatment cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts precise Her-2 gene amplification data that enables reliable identification of patients who truly benefit from Her-2 targeted therapy. By providing accurate quantification of gene amplification, the method prevents unnecessary treatments in patients without Her-2 amplification, thereby reducing overall treatment costs while maintaining high diagnostic reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

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

Enables prompt and accurate diagnosis of breast cancer types based on Her-2 copy number variations, reducing diagnostic time by half and minimizing unnecessary treatments, while providing cost-effective and individualized therapy options.

Implementation Method 1

employing BAC clones and array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) to quantify Her-2 gene amplification

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHybridization:

Data Source

PatentEP2228455B1Diagnosis of HER-2 positive breast cancer
Publication Date: 2012.07.04 MACROGEN INC
  • EP2228455B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2228455B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2228455B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A diagnostic technology for breast cancer, in particular, caused by Her-2 copy number variation is provided. Said diagnostic technology identifies the amplification attributable to Her-2 copy number variations and thus allows correct, convenient and rapid diagnosis of breast cancer caused by the amplification attributable to Her-2 copy number variations. As such, said diagnostic technology is highly beneficial for customized treatments of breast cancer such as the therapy using Her-2 antibody (e.g. Herceptin).