Microbiota Mix Prediction Using Interaction Model Correction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for mixing complex microbiota samples for transplantation or treatment are inefficient, often relying on empirical approaches that fail to ensure the diversity and viability of microorganisms, leading to inaccurate predictions of mix compositions and treatment efficacy.

Innovation Solution

A computer-aided method using a linear approach to predict intermediary mix profiles, followed by correction with an interaction model learned from reference profiles, to accurately control the mixing of microbiota samples, ensuring precise composition and treatment efficacy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If random mixing of microbiota samples is performed to increase diversity, then the diversity of microorganisms in the sample is improved, but the time required to obtain accurate mix profiles increases significantly due to sequencing analysis time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvediversity of microorganismsVSAvoidtime to obtain mix profiles
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary sequencing and profiling of individual donor samples before mixing. This allows the system to predict the composition of mixed samples computationally rather than performing actual sequencing on every mixed sample, dramatically reducing the time required while maintaining accuracy in assessing microbial diversity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates virtual copies or simulated profiles of mixed samples based on mathematical models that predict mix composition from individual sample profiles. These predicted profiles serve as substitutes for actual sequencing of mixed samples, reducing time and resource consumption while providing sufficient information for treatment selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Productivity

If linear prediction is used to estimate mix composition from individual profiles, then the prediction process is simple and fast, but the accuracy of the predicted profiles deteriorates due to shifts and drifts between predicted and true profiles

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of predictionVSAvoidaccuracy of mix profile prediction
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system compares predicted mix profiles with actual measured profiles from sequenced mixed samples. This feedback is used to iteratively refine and recalibrate the prediction model, improving accuracy over time while maintaining the computational efficiency of the prediction approach.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the prediction approach by changing the parameters and structure of the prediction model from simple linear combinations to more sophisticated mathematical models that account for microbial interactions, competition, and environmental adaptation. This allows accurate prediction of mix profiles while maintaining computational feasibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of manufacture

If empirical mixing methods are used without predictive modeling, then the process is simple to implement, but the ability to control and guarantee treatment efficacy is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of mixing processVSAvoidtreatment efficacy guarantee
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary computational modeling and prediction of mix profiles before actual mixing occurs. This allows the system to identify optimal combinations of donor samples that are predicted to achieve desired therapeutic outcomes, ensuring treatment efficacy is optimized before the mixing process begins.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces empirical trial-and-error mixing approaches with a computational modeling system that uses mathematical algorithms to predict mix composition and efficacy. This substitution of computational methods for empirical methods maintains ease of implementation while significantly improving the reliability and predictability of treatment outcomes.

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

Data Source

PatentUS20240221886A1Method of predicting and then producing a mix of microbiota samples
Publication Date: 2024.07.04 MAAT PHARMA
  • US20240221886A1 patent drawing
  • US20240221886A1 patent drawing
  • US20240221886A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Prediction of a mix of complex communities of microorganisms includes a linear prediction, e.g. matrix-based, that is corrected using an interaction model, e.g. a matrix, learnt from reference true mix profiles and corresponding reference linear-predicted profiles. Reverse prediction makes it possible to determine a mix of samples to be made given a target mix profile.