Oligonucleotide Probe for Cis-Trans SNP Configuration Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining whether two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are in the cis or trans configuration are complex and costly, hindering the development of effective therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment resistance, particularly for EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Innovation Solution

An oligonucleotide probe with a reporter region, an anchor region, and a linker region is designed to detect the presence of SNPs, utilizing a fluorescent dye for sensitive and accurate determination of SNP configuration by measuring fluorescence intensity, allowing for the differentiation between cis and trans configurations using a single probe.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If next generation sequencer or digital PCR is used to determine cis-trans configuration of SNPs, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSNP configuration determination accuracyVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The probe is segmented into three functional regions: a reporter region (10-20 nucleotides) containing a fluorescent dye for detecting the first SNP, an anchor region (15-30 nucleotides) for detecting the second SNP, and a linker region (5-15 nucleotides) connecting them. This segmentation allows the single probe to simultaneously detect both SNPs and determine their cis-trans configuration through hybridization patterns, replacing complex next-generation sequencing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The oligonucleotide probe performs multiple functions: it detects the presence/absence of the first SNP through the reporter region, detects the presence/absence of the second SNP through the anchor region, and determines the cis-trans configuration between the two SNPs. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate detection systems and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.

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

2Measurement precision

If next generation sequencer or digital PCR is used to determine cis-trans configuration of SNPs, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSNP configuration determination accuracyVSAvoiddetection method cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The probe is segmented into three functional regions: a reporter region (10-20 nucleotides) containing a fluorescent dye for detecting the first SNP, an anchor region (15-30 nucleotides) for detecting the second SNP, and a linker region (5-15 nucleotides) connecting them. This segmentation allows the single probe to simultaneously detect both SNPs and determine their cis-trans configuration through hybridization patterns, replacing complex next-generation sequencing systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The oligonucleotide probe is a simple, inexpensive, disposable reagent that can be synthesized using standard oligonucleotide synthesis methods. Each probe contains a fluorescent dye that quenches upon hybridization, providing a readout signal. This disposable probe approach eliminates the need for expensive, complex next-generation sequencing instruments and reduces manufacturing costs significantly while maintaining the ability to accurately determine SNP configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Device complexity

If a single oligonucleotide probe is designed to detect both SNPs and determine configuration, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection system complexityVSAvoidSNP configuration determination accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

Different regions of the probe have specialized functions optimized for their specific roles: the reporter region (10-20 nucleotides) is designed with a fluorescent dye for sensitive detection of the first SNP through quenching effects, the anchor region (15-30 nucleotides) is designed for stable hybridization to detect the second SNP, and the linker region (5-15 nucleotides) provides appropriate spacing and flexibility. This local optimization of each region's properties ensures that the single probe maintains high measurement precision for SNP configuration determination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The probe design adds a spatial dimension to SNP detection by using the physical arrangement and spacing of the reporter and anchor regions. The linker region length (5-15 nucleotides) creates appropriate spatial separation that allows the probe to distinguish between cis and trans configurations based on hybridization patterns. This spatial dimensionality enables accurate configuration determination while using a single probe instead of multiple separate assays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 enables simple and cost-effective detection of SNP configurations, facilitating the selection of appropriate therapeutic measures to overcome resistance to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors in cancer treatment.

Implementation Method 1

the reporter region comprises an oligonucleotide consisting of a sequence perfectly matching with the first target sequence, and a fluorescent dye that quenches when the first target sequence and the reporter region hybridize

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluorescence quenching: Fluorescence

Implementation Method 2

the reporter region comprises an oligonucleotide consisting of a sequence perfectly matching with the first target sequence... the anchor region comprises an oligonucleotide consisting of a sequence perfectly matching with the second target sequence

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNucleic acid hybridization: Chemical Bonding

Data Source

PatentUS11851701B2Oligonucleotide probe for detecting single nucleotide polymorphisms, and method for determining cis-trans configuration
Publication Date: 2023.12.26 EIKEN KAGAKU
  • US11851701B2 patent drawing
  • US11851701B2 patent drawing
  • US11851701B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A probe comprising a reporter region for detecting a first single nucleotide polymorphism, an anchor region for detecting a second single nucleotide polymorphism, and a linker region is disclosed. The reporter region comprises an oligonucleotide consisting of a sequence perfectly matching with the first target sequence, and a fluorescent dye that quenches when hybridized to the first target sequence where the first single nucleotide polymorphism is present. The anchor region comprises an oligonucleotide consisting of a sequence perfectly matching with a second target sequence where the second single nucleotide polymorphism is present. A length of the oligonucleotide of the reporter region is shorter than a length of the oligonucleotide of the anchor region.