Sequential Nucleic Acid Barcode Decoding via Strand Displacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing nucleotide barcode systems face limitations in coding capacity, specificity, and sample damage due to the use of lengthy barcode sequences and high-temperature or chemical-based decoding methods, particularly in high multiplicity scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a nucleotide barcode sequence design with multiple sequential barcode positions, each comprising at least one barcode subunit, allowing for increased coding capacity and specificity through strand displacement reactions using detection probes, eliminating the need for high temperatures and toxic chemicals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If high-temperature or chemical-based decoding methods are used, then decoding efficiency is improved, but sample integrity deteriorates due to sample damage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedecoding efficiencyVSAvoidsample damage
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the temperature parameter from high-temperature processing to room temperature operation. The method uses isothermal conditions (20-25°C) instead of thermal cycling, thereby maintaining decoding efficiency while eliminating thermal damage to the sample. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by decoupling decoding efficiency from temperature-dependent processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces chemical-based decoding methods (using formamide or other chemicals to denature and remove probes) with a biological strand displacement mechanism. The second detection probe naturally displaces the first probe through hybridization and strand invasion, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals and preserving sample integrity while maintaining decoding functionality.

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

2Quantity of substance

If lengthy barcode sequences are used, then coding capacity is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to reduced specificity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoding capacityVSAvoidspecificity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the barcode sequence into multiple discrete positions (first barcode position, second barcode position, etc.), each decoded by specific detection probes. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high coding capacity through the combination of multiple positions while maintaining high specificity at each individual position, resolving the contradiction between length and precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from relying solely on barcode sequence length to using the dimensional aspect of sequential position decoding. By implementing multiple barcode positions that are decoded in sequence through multiple detection probe sets, the system increases coding capacity without compromising specificity, as each position is independently and precisely decoded.

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

3Quantity of substance

If multiple detection probes are used for sequential decoding, then coding capacity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoding capacityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous useful action through sequential decoding where each detection probe set builds upon the previous one. The second detection probe set includes probes that can displace the first probe set, allowing continuous information extraction without requiring complete system reconfiguration. This continuity maintains coding capacity while reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs self-service mechanisms where the detection probes automatically perform strand displacement through their hybridization properties. The second detection probe naturally invades and displaces the first probe through complementary base pairing, eliminating the need for external mechanical or chemical intervention and simplifying the overall system complexity while maintaining high coding capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

The method enhances coding capacity, improves specificity and accuracy, reduces time and costs, and preserves the sample integrity by using strand displacement reactions at room temperature.

Implementation Method 1

SBH involves the use of hybridization probes which are designed to hybridize to, and detect, a specific base or a specific sequence

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHybridization: Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 2

A method involving a nucleotide barcode sequence design with multiple sequential barcode positions, each comprising at least one barcode subunit, allowing for increased coding capacity and specificity through strand displacement reactions using detection probes

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStrand displacement reaction:

Data Source

PatentUS20250283168A1Sequential decoding of nucleic acids
Publication Date: 2025.09.11 10X GENOMICS INC
  • US20250283168A1 patent drawing
  • US20250283168A1 patent drawing
  • US20250283168A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present application provides compositions, systems, and methods for encoding and decoding nucleic acid molecules.