Modified Nucleotide Linkers for Sequencing by Synthesis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current nucleotide incorporation methods in DNA sequencing by synthesis are limited by slow nucleotide incorporation rates, which hinder the efficiency of sequencing processes.

Innovation Solution

Development of nucleosides or nucleotides covalently attached to fluorophores through specific linkers, such as structures represented by formulas (I) and (II), which enhance nucleotide incorporation rates by modifying the linker structure to improve sequencing efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional nucleotide linkers are used in sequencing by synthesis, then the sequencing process can proceed, but the nucleotide incorporation rate is slow, limiting sequencing efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenucleotide incorporation rateVSAvoidtime for nucleotide incorporation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the chemical structure of the linker by changing parameters such as the introduction of sulfur atoms (forming disulfide bonds), adjustment of chain length (m, n, p values), and substitution patterns (R1-R8 groups) to optimize the nucleotide incorporation rate while maintaining sequencing functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The linker is designed as a composite structure combining multiple functional elements: fluorophore attachment group, nucleotide attachment group, and intermediate chain with specific substituents (R1-R8), creating a multifunctional molecule that simultaneously enables detection and efficient incorporation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If standard linkers are used, then the sequencing process is simple, but phasing and pre-phasing errors occur, reducing sequencing accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesequencing accuracyVSAvoidlinker structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces specific functional groups at localized positions within the linker (R1-R8 substituents at different locations) to perform specific functions such as reducing phasing errors, maintaining structural stability, and enabling accurate base identification without complicating the overall sequencing process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The modified linker acts as an intermediary between the fluorophore and the nucleotide, mediating their interaction to prevent phasing and pre-phasing errors while maintaining the essential sequencing function, thereby improving accuracy without requiring fundamental changes to the sequencing system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11773438B2Modified nucleotide linkers
Publication Date: 2023.10.03 ILLUMINA CAMBRIDGE LTD
  • US11773438B2 patent drawing
  • US11773438B2 patent drawing
  • US11773438B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Some embodiments of the present application relate to novel modified nucleotide linkers for increasing the efficiency of nucleotide incorporation in Sequencing by Synthesis applications. Methods of preparing these modified nucleotide linkers are also provided herewith.