Simultaneous Functional Ligand Generation via Multiplexed Target Binding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for generating functional biomolecules, such as aptamers, are inefficient in simultaneously identifying multiple target molecules, requiring multiple rounds of SELEX and extensive resources, and lack the ability to efficiently differentiate between multiple binders and single targets.
Innovation Solution
A method for simultaneously generating functional biomolecules by creating a diverse library of nucleic acids or peptides that are contacted with multiple targets in a single reaction volume, using identifiers to mark and tag binding members, allowing for their isolation and identification, and employing techniques like phage display for peptide selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rounds of SELEX are performed to identify multiple target molecules, then the ability to generate functional biomolecules against multiple targets is improved, but the time and resources required increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple target molecules into a single reaction volume, allowing simultaneous selection of aptamers against multiple targets in one SELEX experiment rather than performing separate SELEX rounds for each target. This merging approach directly reduces the time and resources required while maintaining the ability to identify multiple targets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal selection system where a single library of nucleic acids can be screened against multiple different target molecules simultaneously. The use of unique identifiers for each target enables one system to perform multiple functions (identifying different targets) without requiring separate specialized procedures for each target.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rounds of SELEX are performed to identify multiple target molecules, then the ability to generate functional biomolecules against multiple targets is improved, but the resources and physical space required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple target molecules into a single reaction volume, eliminating the need for separate physical spaces and resources for each individual SELEX experiment. This consolidation directly reduces the quantity of substances, reagents, and physical infrastructure required while maintaining comprehensive target coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent develops a universal identification system using unique identifiers that allows a single resource pool to serve multiple targets simultaneously. This multi-functional approach enables one set of reagents and one physical space to perform the work of multiple separate experiments.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple rounds of SELEX are performed to identify multiple target molecules, then the ability to generate functional biomolecules against multiple targets is improved, but the complexity of differentiating between multiple binders and single targets increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces unique identifiers as intermediary elements that mediate between the aptamers and the multiple target molecules. These identifiers act as intermediaries that carry specific information about which target each aptamer binds to, simplifying the differentiation process by providing clear, traceable markers rather than requiring complex analysis of binding patterns across multiple separate experiments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs unique identifiers that can be detected and distinguished from one another, analogous to using different colors to mark different targets. This identification strategy simplifies the complexity of differentiation by providing visually or detectably distinct markers for each target-aptamer interaction, making it easy to distinguish between multiple binders and their specific targets.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to methods for generating functional biomolecules. In one exemplary aspect of the invention, generation of functional biomolecules may be performed against multiple targets simultaneously within a single system. In general, a plurality of targets may be disposed within in a single reaction volume and a library of biomolecules, such as a nucleic acid library, may be applied to the reaction volume. The members of the library that do not bind to any of the plurality of targets under given conditions may then be partitioned. The remaining members of the library may then be marked and/or tagged, such as to identify the particular target or targets to which the member of the library binds. The binding members of the library may then be isolated and, by virtue of the marking or tagging, be matched to a particular target or targets.