Methods for rapid multiplex HLA genotyping and transcript quantitation

ChangeBridge: Patent Apps - Biotech (C12N)

Detected March 27th, 2026

Summary

The USPTO has published a new patent application detailing methods for rapid multiplex HLA genotyping and transcript quantitation using nanopore technology. The application, assigned to The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, outlines techniques for determining HLA status and genotyping donor cells for transplantation.

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What changed

This document is a USPTO patent application (US20260085348A1) for methods of rapid multiplex HLA genotyping and transcript quantitation. The disclosed methods involve processing mRNA from HLA gene products, reverse transcribing it to cDNA, amplifying HLA-specific cDNAs, and sequencing them to determine the HLA status of a subject or to genotype donor cells for transplantation. The application specifically mentions identifying the presence or absence of HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB 1/3/4/5, -DQA1, and -DQB1.

As this is a patent application, it does not impose direct regulatory obligations or compliance deadlines on entities. However, it signifies potential future technological advancements in diagnostics and transplantation. Companies involved in molecular diagnostics, genetic testing, and organ transplantation may find this technology relevant for R&D and future product development. No penalties are associated with patent applications themselves; they represent claims to intellectual property.

Source document (simplified)

← USPTO Patent Applications

UNIQUE MOLECULAR IDENTIFIER ENHANCED HLA GENOTYPING AND TRANSCRIPT QUANTITATION USING NANOPORE TECHNOLOGY

Application US20260085348A1 Kind: A1 Mar 26, 2026

Assignee

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Inventors

Eric Thomas Weimer, Maureen C. Montgomery

Abstract

Provided are methods for rapid multiplex HLA genotyping and transcript quantitation. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed methods include providing a. sample from the cell, tissue, or organ that has mRNA derived from an HLA gene product; reverse transcribing the mRNA to produce a. pool of cDNAs; amplifying the cDNAs that result from reverse transcription of HLA-specific mRNAs to produce a pool of HLA-specific cDNAs; and determining the sequence of each HLA-specific cDNAs, whereby the HLA status of the cell, tissue, organ, or subject is determined. Also provided are methods for genotyping donor cells, tissues, and/or organs meant for transplantation into recipients. In some embodiments, the methods can be used to identify the presence of absence of each of HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB 1/3/4/5, -DQA1, and -DQB1 in a biological sample.