Modified Nucleotides for Accurate Polymerase-Based DNA Sequencing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing DNA sequencing methods, particularly sequencing by synthesis (SBS), lack modified nucleotides and nucleosides that are efficiently recognized by DNA polymerases and accurately incorporated into growing DNA chains, hindering the goal of achieving the $1,000 genome.

Innovation Solution

Development of modified nucleotides with specific substituents that are recognized by DNA polymerases and incorporated into DNA chains, allowing for accurate sequencing through methods involving unique detectable labels and nucleic acid polymerase complexes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If modified nucleotides are used in sequencing by synthesis, then the goal of achieving the $1,000 genome is advanced, but existing modified nucleotides are not efficiently recognized by DNA polymerases or accurately incorporated into growing DNA chains

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesequencing efficiencyVSAvoidincorporation accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the chemical parameters of nucleotide analogs by introducing specific substituent groups (R1-R8) with defined chemical properties. These parameter changes optimize both polymerase recognition efficiency and incorporation accuracy, resolving the contradiction between productivity and reliability in sequencing applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality modifications by introducing specific functional groups at particular positions (R1-R8) on the nucleotide structure. Each substituent is carefully selected to enhance specific aspects of polymerase interaction and incorporation fidelity, allowing simultaneous improvement of efficiency and accuracy through localized structural optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If standard DNA sequencing methods are used, then the process is straightforward, but the cost and time required prevent achieving the $1,000 genome goal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesequencing throughputVSAvoidsequencing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates modified nucleotides with pre-attached detectable labels and blocking groups into the sequencing process. These preliminary modifications enable direct detection and automated cycle control without additional steps, significantly increasing throughput while reducing the time required for each sequencing cycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The modified nucleotide analogs serve multiple functions simultaneously: they act as polymerase substrates for chain extension, carry detectable labels for base identification, and include blocking groups to prevent premature extension. This multi-functionality consolidates multiple sequencing operations into a single integrated process, improving productivity without extending time.

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

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

Enhances the efficiency and accuracy of DNA sequencing by enabling the incorporation of modified nucleotides into DNA chains, facilitating precise identification and sequencing of nucleic acids.

Implementation Method 1

DNA sequencing is a fundamental tool in biological and medical research; it is an essential technology for the paradigm of personalized precision medicine. Among various new DNA sequencing methods, sequencing by synthesis (SBS) is the leading method

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDNA polymerase catalysis: Enzyme

Data Source

PatentUS12577271B2Modified nucleotides and uses thereof
Publication Date: 2026.03.17 SINGULAR GENOMICS SYSTEMS INC
  • US12577271B2 patent drawing
  • US12577271B2 patent drawing
  • US12577271B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein, inter alia, are compounds, modified nucleotides, compositions, and methods of using the same.