Subtype-Specific Antibiogram Display for Genomic Resistance Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

The rise of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria poses challenges in effectively managing antimicrobials and antimicrobial-resistant infections, particularly in clinical environments, where conventional methods rely heavily on doctor knowledge and experience rather than subtype-specific antimicrobial administration.

Innovation Solution

The use of next-generation sequencing technologies (NGS) and molecular epidemiology to generate subtype-specific antibiograms, which involve culturing pathogens, sequencing their genomes, comparing the data against databases, and presenting sensitivity/resistance information in graphical displays to guide appropriate antimicrobial treatment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional antibiogram methods are used, then the process is simple and quick, but the information is not subtype-specific and lacks precision in guiding treatment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesubtype-specific sensitivity informationVSAvoidgenomic sequencing and analysis system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the antibiogram information by organizing sensitivity data according to specific bacterial subtypes rather than presenting aggregate data. This segmentation allows clinicians to access precise subtype-specific guidance while the system handles the complexity of genomic analysis in the background.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a computational intermediary system that performs genomic sequencing, subtype identification, and sensitivity analysis. This intermediary handles the complex genomic data processing, presenting simplified subtype-specific results to clinicians without requiring them to directly manage the complexity of genomic analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If subtype-specific genomic analysis is implemented, then treatment precision is improved, but the time required for analysis increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveantimicrobial sensitivity accuracyVSAvoidtime to obtain sensitivity results
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-processing and pre-analyzing genomic data as it becomes available, rather than waiting for complete data sets. The system continuously updates subtype sensitivity information as new genomic sequences are analyzed, providing earlier preliminary results that can guide treatment decisions before complete analysis is finished.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent maintains continuity of useful action by implementing continuous genomic sequencing and analysis rather than batch processing. The system continuously updates antibiogram information as new data becomes available, ensuring that treatment guidance is continuously refined without requiring waiting for complete data sets, thus reducing overall time to actionable results.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Reliability

If comprehensive genomic sequencing is performed, then resistance detection capability is enhanced, but the cost and complexity of the system increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresistance detection accuracyVSAvoidsequencing and database comparison system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential genomic information needed for subtype identification and sensitivity prediction, rather than analyzing entire genomes in detail. By focusing on specific genomic markers and comparative analysis of key regions, the system achieves reliable resistance detection while reducing overall system complexity and computational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal database and analysis system that handles multiple bacterial species and subtypes through a single integrated platform. This multi-functional system can analyze different pathogens using the same genomic sequencing and comparison infrastructure, reducing per-application complexity while maintaining comprehensive detection capabilities across diverse organisms.

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

Data Source

PatentUS11264118B2Methods of displaying the antimicrobial sensitivity of biological isolates
Publication Date: 2022.03.01 KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV
  • US11264118B2 patent drawing
  • US11264118B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and systems for monitoring and determining antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial treatment using genomic subtype information. Various embodiments utilize molecular epidemiology and next-generation sequencing technologies (NGS) to monitor multi-drug resistant pathogens and provide early insight into emergent microbial threats.