DNAPrint Files Patent for Complex Genomics Algorithm
SARASOTA, Fla., Dec. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- DNAPrint genomics, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: DNAP) announced today that it has filed a US patent application to protect a key component of its developing informatics platform. The patent, entitled "METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF GENETIC FEATURES FOR COMPLEX GENETICS CLASSIFIERS" was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on December 3, 2001.
In scientific terms, the invention is a lexigraphical algorithm for identifying sets of human polymorphisms that are linked to complex and/or quantitative human traits (such as aberrant drug response, for example). The algorithm comprises the core of a novel software application called the "Haploscope Genetic Feature Extractor", which imparts to the company a significant statistical advantage for its research and product development efforts.
In lay terms, the algorithm is used to identify the "puzzle pieces" of a complex genetic "picture". The puzzle pieces are best described as "features" that can be used to distinguish between different classes of patients (such as responders and non-responders, for example). Just as we use features such as nose shape, hair color, weight, voice and height to visually identify people in our everyday lives, so too, do genomics companies strive to discover and use genetic features for distinguishing between groups of patients. Once the features have been identified, they can be combined into classifiers, which can be used, en masse, to predict patient drug response in a commercial setting. The invention covered by this patent application describes a novel method for identifying these genetic features, and represents an important step in the development of personalized drug prescription products.
"Because most drug reaction traits are functions of multiple interacting genes, DNAPrint believes that only properly identified and modeled genetic features will allow the development of Pharmacogenomics classifiers with the sensitivity and specificity necessary for use in personalized drug prescription, said Dr. Tony Frudakis, chief executive officer, president and laboratory director. "The company is developing an informatics platform to affect this analytical process. The invention covered by the patent application announced today comprises merely one component of this platform, and because of its central role in the ongoing discovery efforts at DNAPrint, it is a significant part of DNAPrint's competitive strategy," he explained.
About DNAPrint genomics, Inc.:
DNAPrint genomics Inc. was founded by a team of scientists with research and commercial experience in high-level mathematical and statistical modeling, programming and molecular genetics. The Company is traded on the NASDAQ OTC Bulletin Board under the ticker symbol: DNAP. For more information about the company, please visit www.dnaprint.com. For additional information, please contact: Steve Wagoner at 941/923-1949 or at swagoner@tbfcorp.net.
All statements in this press release that are not historical are forward- looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act as amended. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected, including, but not limited to, uncertainties relating to technologies, product development, manufacturing, market acceptance, cost and pricing of DNAPrint's products, dependence on collaborations and partners, regulatory approvals, competition, intellectual property of others, and patent protection and litigation. DNAPrint genomics, Inc. expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in DNAPrint's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statements are based.
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SOURCE DNAPrint genomics, Inc.
/CONTACT: Steve Wagoner for DNAPrint genomics, Inc., +1-941-923-1949,
swagoner@tbfcorp.net/
/Web site: dnaprint.com |
