Machine Learning for Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Nanoparticle Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for designing molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticles (MIP-NPs) are inefficient and sub-optimal due to the complexity of target molecule structures and the vast range of functional monomer combinations, leading to time-consuming and resource-intensive processes.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method using a machine learning algorithm to rapidly identify optimal formulations of MIP-NPs by processing pre-defined datasets of functional monomers, template molecules, and cross-linkers to find combinations with maximum hydrogen bonds and minimum total interaction energy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If conventional methods are used for designing MIP-NPs, then the design process can be performed with standard procedures, but the process becomes time-consuming and resource-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign process simplicityVSAvoiddesign time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces conventional trial-and-error experimental design methods with a machine learning-based computational system. The ML algorithm processes molecular structures and predicts optimal MIP-NP formulations, substituting manual research processes with automated computational analysis that delivers results in seconds rather than extended experimental cycles.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a virtual model of the MIP-NP design process through machine learning algorithms that simulate and predict formulation outcomes. Instead of physically testing numerous combinations, the system uses computational copies and simulations to identify optimal formulations, dramatically reducing the time and resources required for actual experimental validation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional methods are used for designing MIP-NPs, then standard procedures can be followed, but the formulations obtained are sub-optimal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedesign process standardizationVSAvoidformulation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the design approach by changing key parameters from empirical selection to data-driven optimization. The machine learning algorithm analyzes multiple molecular parameters simultaneously (functional monomer combinations, template molecule structures, cross-linker ratios) and identifies formulations that maximize hydrogen bonding and minimize interaction energy, achieving precision unattainable through conventional standardized procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual formulation development with an automated machine learning system that computationally determines optimal MIP-NP compositions. This substitution enables precise control over formulation parameters by systematically evaluating molecular interactions and predicting performance outcomes, thereby achieving superior formulation accuracy compared to conventional methods.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If the vast range of functional monomer combinations is explored using conventional methods, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but the process becomes inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemonomer combination coverageVSAvoiddesign efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the principle of partial action by using the machine learning algorithm to strategically evaluate the most promising subset of functional monomer combinations rather than exhaustively testing all possible variations. The ML model predicts which combinations will yield optimal results based on molecular features, allowing the system to focus computational resources on high-probability formulations and achieve comprehensive coverage of viable options without the inefficiency of brute-force exploration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP4567819A1Apparatus and computer-implemented method for producing a molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticle based on a machine learning algorithm
Publication Date: 2025.06.11 UNIVERSITY OF KIEL
  • EP4567819A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4567819A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4567819A1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

A computer-implemented method for producing a multifunctional molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticle recipes based on a machine learning algorithm, wherein the molecularly imprinted polymer nanoparticle comprises a template molecule, one or more (up to 3) functional monomers and cross-linker, wherein the computer-implemented method comprises: importing a programming library; receiving an input dataset; pre-processing an input dataset, wherein the defined dataset comprises data of functional monomers, template molecules and cross-linkers; including data on the amino acid types within the template sequences; classifying functional monomers and cross-linker based on the pre-defined dataset and selection criteria; predicting functional monomers, cross-linker, and their ratios for new template sequences; outputting data of the followings: best/optimal functional monomers, cross-linker and their ratios on a display means, for a given template molecule.