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Patent Digest: Winter 2021

Innovations in genome editing, single molecule analysis, gastrointestinal sensor bacteria for the development of living therapeutics, and more

To realize its overarching goal to invent and commercialize disruptive solutions for healthcare, energy, architecture, robotics, and manufacturing, the Wyss Institute is creating a patent portfolio in relevant areas that are or can become an essential basis for specific business development and commercialization efforts. To learn more about these innovations, contact our Business Development Team.

This Wyss Institute’s U.S. patents issued between January and March 2021 are as follows:

Patent Digest: Winter 2021
Integrated human organ-on-chip microphysiological systems Credit: Harvard University

Multiplexed genome editing

U.S. Patent 10,959,413 (March 30, 2021)

George M. Church, Luhan Yang, and Marc Guell

Abstract: A method of modulating some or all copies of a gene in a cell is provided including introducing into a cell one or more ribonucleic acid (RNA) sequences that comprise a portion that is complementary to all or a portion of each of the one or more target nucleic acid sequences, and a nucleic acid sequence that encodes a Cas protein and maintaining the cells under conditions in which the Cas protein is expressed and the Cas protein binds and modulates the one or more target nucleic acid sequences in the cell.

Integrated human organ-on-chip microphysiological systems

U.S. Patent 10,954,482 (March 23, 2021)

Donald E. Ingber, Anthony Bahinski, Robert Cunningham, Josue A. Goss, Geraldine A. Hamilton, Christopher David Hinojosa, Daniel Levner, and Kevin Kit Parker

Abstract: The invention provides integrated Organ-on-Chip microphysiological systems representations of living Organs and support structures for such microphysiological systems.

Patent Digest: Winter 2021
Spinning apparatus for measurement of characteristics relating to molecules. Credit: Harvard University

Spinning apparatus for measurement of characteristics relating to molecules

U.S. Patent 10,948,401 (March 16, 2021)

Darren Yang, Andrew Ward, Wesley Philip Wong, and Kenneth Anders Halvorsen

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a characteristic of a sample using a centrifuge and optical components is disclosed. The centrifuge may be a standard benchtop centrifuge. The optical components may be sized and dimensioned to fit, along with the sample, inside the centrifuge.

Multiplexed genome editing

U.S. Patent 10,925,263 (February 23, 2021)

George M. Church, Luhan Yang, and Marc Guell

Abstract: A method of modulating some or all copies of a gene in a cell is provided including introducing into a cell one or more ribonucleic acid (RNA) sequences that comprise a portion that is complementary to all or a portion of each of the one or more target nucleic acid sequences, and a nucleic acid sequence that encodes a Cas protein and maintaining the cells under conditions in which the Cas protein is expressed and the Cas protein binds and modulates the one or more target nucleic acid sequences in the cell.

De novo design of allosteric proteins

U.S. Patent 10,920,217 (February 16, 2021)

Srivatsan Raman, Noah D. Taylor, and George M. Church

Abstract: Methods and compositions for making and isolating allosteric DNA binding proteins that bind to one or more allosteric effectors to induce a conformation change in the proteins are provided.

Patent Digest: Winter 2021
High-throughput structure determination using nucleic acid calipers. Credit: Harvard University

High-throughput structure determination using nucleic acid calipers

U.S. Patent 10,914,733 (February 9, 2021)

William M. Shih and Wesley Philip Wong

Abstract: Provided herein are compositions and methods for determining the structure of individual targets using by determining long-range distances within such targets.

Engineered genetic enteric sensor bacteria and uses thereof

U.S. Patent 10,907,221 (February 2, 2021)

Jonathan Kotula, Scott Jordan Kerns, Jeffrey Charles Way, Pamela A. Silver, and Lev Shaket

Abstract: The disclosure relates to genetic engineered bacteria having a genetic memory circuit, compositions thereof, formulations thereof, methods of analyses and method of treatment of conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract including the mouth and the stomach.

Method and system of nanopore-based information encoding

U.S. Patent 10,883,140 (January 5, 2021)

George M. Church, Mirko Palla, Peter Benjamin Stranges, and Jeffrey Matthew Nivala

Abstract: This invention provides methods and systems of DNA synthesis including providing an encoding unit comprising an enzyme, a single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) and a nanopore, providing a lipid bilayer having on opposite sides a cis and a trans reservoir each having a different buffer composition, wherein the nanopore is within the lipid bilayer and the enzyme and the ssDNA are in the cis reservoir, providing an electrode over the lipid bilayer wherein the electrode can modulate voltage across the lipid bilayer, wherein the enzyme catalyzes DNA synthesis in response to the voltage.

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