Nanopore Genetic Marker Analysis via Probe Hybridization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for analyzing genetic markers, such as gel electrophoresis sizing, are time-consuming and labor-intensive, necessitating an improved method for detecting or analyzing genetic markers, particularly for forensic applications and inherited disease analysis.

Innovation Solution

A method involving binding probes to single-stranded nucleic acids with repeat regions and directing them through a nanopore device to measure signals indicative of the number of repeat units, allowing for the determination of genotypes based on current spikes, which can be used to type microsatellite markers and other polymorphic genetic markers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional gel electrophoresis sizing is used to analyze genetic markers, then the method is simple and widely applicable, but it is time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalysis speedVSAvoidmethod complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical gel electrophoresis system with a nanopore-based detection system. The nanopore device directly detects DNA sequences through electrical current measurements as molecules pass through the pore, eliminating the need for gel matrices, electrophoresis chambers, and manual staining procedures. This substitution of mechanical/chemical separation methods with direct electrical detection achieves faster analysis while maintaining simplicity through automated signal processing

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses probe molecules that bind to complementary sequences on the DNA target. These probes create hybridized structures that can be detected through the nanopore, effectively copying the detection function. The probes act as intermediaries that transform the DNA sequence information into detectable signal patterns, enabling rapid identification without direct manipulation of the target DNA through complex mechanical processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Productivity

If conventional gel electrophoresis is used, then the equipment is simple and accessible, but the labor intensity and time required for analysis are high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanalysis throughputVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The nanopore system performs automated detection and analysis without requiring manual intervention for each measurement step. The system automatically captures current traces, processes signals, and identifies genetic markers based on electrophoretic mobility and sequence-specific probe binding. This self-service capability eliminates repetitive manual operations while maintaining ease of use through standardized protocols and automated data interpretation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs pre-designed probe molecules that are prepared in advance with specific sequences complementary to target markers. These probes are pre-attached or pre-positioned to bind to their targets before analysis, eliminating the need for manual probe synthesis or complex pre-processing steps during the actual measurement. This preliminary preparation simplifies operation while enabling high-throughput analysis

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If nanopore devices are used to detect genetic markers, then analysis speed and accuracy are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegenotyping accuracyVSAvoidnanopore system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the detection process into distinct functional segments: probe binding to create hybridized structures, translocation through the nanopore, current signal generation, and computational analysis. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the probes for specific sequence recognition, the nanopore for precise molecular counting, and the signal processing for accurate genotype calling - thereby achieving high measurement precision while managing overall system complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This approach provides a faster and more accurate method for analyzing genetic markers, enabling high-confidence genotyping and reducing the time and labor required for genetic identification and disease analysis.

Implementation Method 1

directing the segment through a nanopore device, stripping the bound probes of the set of probes from the segment, and measuring a signal through the nanopore device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNanopore current measurement: Nanopore

Implementation Method 2

binding a set of probes to a segment of single stranded nucleic acids

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHybridization: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentUS9068221B2Method of analysis of genetic markers
Publication Date: 2015.06.30 LIFE TECHNOLOGIES CORP
  • US9068221B2 patent drawing
  • US9068221B2 patent drawing
  • US9068221B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method of analyzing genetic markers includes binding a set of probes to a segment of single stranded nucleic acids. The segment of single stranded nucleic acids includes a repeat region formed of at least two of a repeat unit. The repeat unit can include at least two nucleic acids. The set of probes includes a first probe complementary to the repeat unit. The method can further include directing the segment through a nanopore device and measuring a signal through the nanopore device. The signal can be indicative of the number of repeat units.