Reed-Solomon DNA Sequencing Error Correction for Noisy Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional genome sequencing methods face limitations in accuracy due to low signal-to-noise ratios and inefficiencies in error correction, particularly in recognizing and correcting errors in DNA sequences, which affects the characterization and classification of DNA strands.

Innovation Solution

Employing Reed-Solomon error correction codes to convert data from labeled bases into block codes for computer-based error correction, enabling the identification and correction of errors in DNA sequences by oversampling and using redundant data points to recover accurate sequences.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional sequencing methods are used, then sequencing throughput is achieved, but accuracy deteriorates due to low signal-to-noise ratios and inability to correct errors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesequencing accuracyVSAvoiderror correction capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating Reed-Solomon error correction codes into the sequencing methodology before actual sequencing occurs. The error correction framework is pre-established with defined code structures and correction algorithms, enabling systematic error handling during sequencing without requiring post-sequencing analysis or intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces Reed-Solomon codes as an intermediary mathematical framework between the raw sequencing data and the final accurate sequence determination. These codes act as a mediator that transforms noisy observational data into corrected sequence information through polynomial construction and root-finding algorithms, bridging the gap between low-quality signals and high-accuracy results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If Hamming codes are used for error correction, then one bit error can be corrected, but multiple base errors cannot be corrected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror correction capabilityVSAvoidapplicability to multiple error types
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from binary Hamming codes to Reed-Solomon codes with higher-order parameters. Reed-Solomon codes use polynomials over finite fields with parameters that allow correction of multiple symbol errors, including insertions, deletions, and substitutions. The code structure parameters (degree of polynomial, field size, number of check symbols) are specifically configured to handle diverse error types in sequencing data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If more redundant data points are used for error correction, then error correction accuracy improves, but data processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveerror detection accuracyVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex iterative error correction algorithms with a more efficient mathematical approach based on Reed-Solomon decoding. The substitution involves using polynomial root-finding methods and syndrome decoding techniques that reduce computational complexity compared to brute-force or iterative methods, while maintaining high error correction accuracy through efficient use of redundant data points.

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

Data Source

PatentUS8407554B2Method and apparatus for quantification of DNA sequencing quality and construction of a characterizable model system using Reed-Solomon codes
Publication Date: 2013.03.26 COMPLETE GENOMICS INC
  • US8407554B2 patent drawing
  • US8407554B2 patent drawing
  • US8407554B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Data extracted from fluorosphore responses of fluorophore labeled bases in genetic material used in sequencing of unknown fragments from a defined set of for example a model system are converted into a class of block codes that are then employed in a computer-based process to compare and correct preliminary calls of calls of the categorically known genetic material. In a specific embodiment, the Reed-Solomon codes are employed to identify one or more errors as may occur in a finite block of codes. The methodology is also useful to identify elements of a real system containing known elements in the form of a tag. Reed-Solomon sensors may be employed with and in addition to other types of genome sensors.