# How to Copy Many DNA Sections at the Same Time

> This patent describes methods for simultaneously copying multiple specific DNA or RNA segments in a single test tube, along with strategies for selecting the short DNA starter pieces (primers) to ensure accurate and efficient amplification.

- **Patent:** US 12735748
- **Original title:** Methods for simultaneous amplification of target loci
- **Granted:** 2026
- **Status:** Active
- **Times cited:** 0
- **Field:** biotech, diagnostics, pharmaceutical, medical_devices, gene_editing

## What it does

The patent describes ways to copy many different DNA or RNA sections, called "nucleic acid regions of interest," all at once within a single container, like a test tube. It also covers how to choose the short DNA pieces, called "primers," that start this copying process. The goal is to pick primers that work well together, minimizing the creation of unwanted side products, such as "primer dimers" (where primers stick to each other instead of the target DNA) or other "non-target amplicons" (copied DNA that isn't from the desired regions). For example, a single test could simultaneously check for multiple different viral infections by copying specific DNA markers from each virus in one go.

## What it does NOT cover

- Methods that amplify only a single nucleic acid region, rather than multiple regions simultaneously.
- Amplification processes where different nucleic acid regions are copied in separate reaction containers.
- Techniques that do not involve a specific method for selecting primers to improve amplification quality.
- Amplification methods that do not aim to minimize the formation of primer dimers or other non-target amplicons.
- Methods for detecting or analyzing the amplified products, focusing only on the amplification process itself.

## The clever bit

The core innovation lies in the systematic approach to selecting primers for multiplex reactions. By focusing on methods that ensure "minimal formation of amplified primer dimers or other non-target amplicons," the patent addresses a major challenge in copying many DNA segments at once, leading to more reliable and accurate results.

## Real-world examples

1. Multiplex PCR diagnostic kits for respiratory viruses (e.g., flu, COVID-19)
2. Genetic screening panels for inherited diseases
3. Forensic DNA profiling (STR analysis)
4. Food safety testing for multiple pathogens
5. Cancer gene panel testing

## Why it matters

Simultaneously copying multiple DNA or RNA targets in one reaction is crucial for efficiency in many fields. It saves time, reduces the amount of sample needed, and lowers costs compared to running separate reactions for each target. This technology is vital for rapid disease diagnosis, genetic screening, and forensic analysis, allowing scientists to gather more information from a single biological sample.

## Frequently asked questions

### What does How to Copy Many DNA Sections at the Same Time cover?

This patent describes methods for simultaneously copying multiple specific DNA or RNA segments in a single test tube, along with strategies for selecting the short DNA starter pieces (primers) to ensure accurate and efficient amplification.

### When does this patent expire?

This patent is expected to expire on September 15, 2046, when the invention enters the public domain.

### What problem does this patent solve?

Simultaneously copying multiple DNA or RNA targets in one reaction is crucial for efficiency in many fields. It saves time, reduces the amount of sample needed, and lowers costs compared to running separate reactions for each target. This technology is vital for rapid disease diagnosis, genetic screening, and forensic analysis, allowing scientists to gather more information from a single biological sample.

### What does this patent NOT cover?

Methods that amplify only a single nucleic acid region, rather than multiple regions simultaneously.

**Full plain-English explainer:** https://patentbrief.org/patent/us/12735748/methods-for-simultaneous-amplification-of-target-loci-12735748

**Original patent:** https://patents.google.com/patent/US12735748

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_Source: PatentBrief — https://patentbrief.org. Patent facts are from public records; the plain-English explanation is PatentBrief's._