WO2015050904A2

WO2015050904A2 - Products combined with synthetic genetic material

Info

Publication number: WO2015050904A2
Application number: PCT/US2014/058478
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander M. Aravanis; Nicholas M. HOFMEISTER; Alison Leigh PYLE; Jason L. Pyle; Monique WILLIAMSON
Original assignee: Fabric Media
Priority date: 2013-10-02
Filing date: 2014-09-30
Publication date: 2015-04-09
Also published as: WO2015050904A3

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments provide for various products combined with one or more sets of synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising: selecting a genetic component responsible at least in part for a desired attribute of at least one source organism; determining a genetic sequence of interest that corresponds to the selected genetic component; and synthesizing copies of the genetic sequence of interest to create the one or more sets of synthetic genetic sequences.

Description

PRODUCTS COMBINED WITH SYNTHETIC GENETIC MATERIAL

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[001 ] This application claims the benefit of Provisional Application Serial No. 61 /885,963, filed October 2, 2013, assigned to the assignee of the present application, and incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[002] Celebrity merchandising represents a large and high margin segment of the merchandising industry. The industry seeks to create products that invoke a personal connection to the celebrity. However, although mass market products may contain human or animal deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) for allegedly medicinal reasons, consumer products typically do not contain genetic sequences of interest unique to the celebrity or specifically associated with a desired attribute associated with the celebrity. Hence, existing products marketed in connection with a celebrity have no real personal connection with the celebrity besides an endorsement.

[003] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an improved method of manufacturing an enhanced product and improved product compositions that increase marketability.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[004] Exemplary embodiments provide for various products combined with one or more sets of synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising: selecting a genetic component responsible at least in part for a desired attribute of at least one source organism; determining a genetic sequence of interest that corresponds to the selected genetic component; and synthesizing copies of the genetic sequence of interest to create the one or more sets of synthetic genetic sequences.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[005] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system for manufacturing an enhanced product and for increasing the merchandising value of the product.

[006] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a process for manufacturing an enhanced product by combining the product with synthetic genetic material, thereby increasing the merchandising value of the product.

[007] FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating one embodiment for an example schema for the in the SOI database.

[008] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process for manufacturing an enhanced product in which a perfume is infused with human synthesized cardiac genes, according to one specific embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[009] The exemplary embodiments relate to a product or an article of manufacture prepared by a process that combines components comprising the product with one or more sets of synthetic genetic sequences. The following description is presented to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention and is provided in the context of a patent application and its requirements. Various modifications to the exemplary embodiments and the generic principles and features described herein will be readily apparent. The exemplary embodiments are mainly described in terms of particular methods and systems provided in particular implementations. However, the methods and systems will operate effectively in other implementations. Phrases such as "exemplary embodiment", "one embodiment" and "another embodiment" may refer to the same or different embodiments. The embodiments will be described with respect to systems and/or devices having certain components. However, the systems and/or devices may include more or less components than those shown, and variations in the arrangement and type of the components may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The exemplary embodiments will also be described in the context of particular methods having certain steps. However, the method and system operate effectively for other methods having different and/or additional steps and steps in different orders that are not inconsistent with the exemplary embodiments. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.

[010] The methods described herein may employ, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques and descriptions of molecular biology (including recombinant techniques), cell biology, biochemistry, and sequencing technology, which are within the skill of those who practice in the art. Such conventional techniques include extraction, purification and processing of DNA and RNA, oligonucleotide synthesis, hybridization and ligation of oligonucleotides, nucleic acid sequencing, and the like. Conventional techniques and descriptions for use in the methods of the invention can be found in standard laboratory manuals such as Green, et al., Eds., Genome Analysis: A Laboratory Manual Series (Vols. I-IV) (1999); Weiner, et al., Eds., Genetic Variation: A Laboratory Manual (2007); Dieffenbach, Dveksler, Eds., PCR Primer: A Laboratory Manual (2003); Bowtell and Sambrook, DNA Microarrays: A Molecular Cloning Manual (2003); Mount, Bioinformatics: Sequence and Genome Analysis (2004); Sambrook and Russell, Condensed Protocols from Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual (2006); and Sambrook and Russell, Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual (2002) (all from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press); Stryer, L, Biochemistry (4th Ed.) W.H. Freeman, New York (1995); Gait, "Oligonucleotide Synthesis: A Practical Approach" IRL Press, London (1984); Nelson and Cox, Lehninger, Principles of Biochemistry, 3^rd Ed., W. H. Freeman Pub., New York (2000); and Berg et al., Biochemistry, 5^th Ed., W.H. Freeman Pub., New York (2002), all of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Before the present compositions and methods are described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the specific methods, compositions, nucleic acid sequences and uses thereof described, as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, which will be limited only by the appended claims.

[01 1 ] Applicants of the present application realize that a potential way to make a product more personal is to combine the product with a celebrity's genetic material. One possible way to do this would be to harvest a tissue or blood sample from the celebrity and then extract, purify, and, optionally amplify DNA from this material. The extracted and purified DNA could then be infused or mixed into the product. However, at least two potential problems arise from this approach. First, using DNA actually harvested from a human being has the potential to carry infectious materials. Second, for mass production of the product a prohibitively large amount of DNA would be required.

[012] The exemplary embodiments relate to improved methods of product manufacture and improved product compositions in which components of a product are combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences. In one embodiment, the genetic sequence, or sets of genetic sequences, from which the synthetic genetic sequences are copied may be unique to a specific organism, e.g., a particular celebrity, and/or may be responsible at least in part for a desired attribute of the organism that has a marketing relationship to the product. Enhancing products with synthetic genetic sequences may increase the merchandising value of the products, particularly where the source of the genetic sequences is a celebrity, famous athlete, or any organism with desired specific traits or attributes.

[013] According to the exemplary embodiments, genetic material is combined with a product to increase the product's merchandising value. However, unlike existing products having animal or human DNA, the products and methods of the present invention do not necessarily increase any medicinal properties of the product, and the products and methods utilize synthetic DNA sequences that are selected for being responsible for one or more desired attributes aside from the properties of nucleic acids generally. As used herein, the term "combine(d)" is intended to mean that: a) one or more components of a product or article of manufacture are infused with synthesized copies of selected genetic sequences to produce an enhanced product; b) synthesized copies of selected genetic sequences are introduced into and/or mixed with one or more components of a product or article of manufacture to produce an enhanced product; or c) synthesized copies of selected genetic sequences are modified by attaching a chemically reactive group (e.g. a functional group) to one or both terminal ends of the synthetic genetic sequences. Depending on the types and use and reaction conditions, these reactive/functional groups can join together to form linkage (covalent bonds) that can create permanent attachments to one or more components or materials of a product or article of manufacture to produce an enhanced product. Example forms of modification may include, but are not limited to, i) polymerizing the synthetic genetic sequences rather than, or prior to, infusing the sequences into a product; ii) dendrimer formation, and iii) capping.

[014] The enhanced products incorporating the synthetic genetic sequences of the exemplary embodiments solve the problems described above, including providing a source of non-infectious, safe, personalized DNA, and methods to mass produce DNA for infusion into products. Such enhanced products may be tailored to the desires of individuals, bringing an element of human's blueprint for life into real-world products. People experience DNA daily and constantly, and the enhanced products of the exemplary embodiments will allow the products that people commonly use to reflect this experience. These enhanced products can be designed to showcase, experience, and use synthetic genetic material, such as DNA, from celebrities, famous athletes, pets, or even the consumer.

[015] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system for manufacturing an enhanced product and for increasing the merchandising value of the product. The system 10 may include a sequence and synthesis lab 14, a genetic sequence provider 18, and at least one product manufacturer 24. According to the exemplary embodiments, one purpose of the genetic sequence provider 18 is to increase the merchandising value of products produced by the product manufacturer 24. This is accomplished by the genetic sequence provider 18 obtaining a genetic material sample 12 from one or more sources or samples, which may include humans, animals, insects, fungi, and plants. In an exemplary embodiment, the genetic material sample 12 may be obtained from people who would normally endorse products, such as celebrities and athletes (living or deceased).

[016] The genetic material sample 12 is sent to the sequence and synthesis lab 14, which purifies the genetic material in the sample, performs genotyping, or conventional sequencing on the genetic material, which may determine an order of nucleotide bases (adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine)), and reproduces select sequences through synthesis to produce synthetic genetic sequences 16. According to one aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the genetic sequences may be selected by identifying the genetic sequences and/or other genetic components responsible at least in part for some desired attribute of the source of the genetic material sample 12. This may include first selecting a biological molecule responsible at least in part for the desired attribute and then determining a genetic sequence of interest associated with the biological molecule, e.g., a protein.

[017] In exchange for an appropriate fee, the genetic sequence provider 18 may provide the synthetic genetic sequences 16 to the product manufacturer 24, who during manufacture of the product, combines the synthetic genetic sequences 16 with components of the product to produce an enhanced product 26. When the enhanced product 26 combined with human DNA such as from a celebrity, for example, the product can be marketed as containing the essence or unique signature of that celebrity. As an example, a perfume could be infused with the DNA from a famous actress, such as Angelina Jolie, who consumers may associate with attributes such as glamour, sensuality and beauty, thus potentially increasing the perfume's merchandising value.

[018] In one embodiment, the genetic sequence provider 18 may create and maintain a sequence of interest (SOI) repository 20 to store the physical synthetic genetic sequences 16. The SOI repository 20 may also be used to store the original or processed (e.g., purified) genetic material sample 12. According to a further aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the genetic sequence provider 18 may also create and maintain a sequence of interest (SOI) database 22. In one embodiment, the SOI database 22 may be configured with a storage function that stores records cataloging source organism attributes and responsible genes, genetic sequences and/or biological molecules the SOI database 22 may be further configured with a retrieval function, which responsive to a request for a client computer, searches for specific records based on attributes, genes, genetic sequence, biological molecules or product criteria. Any found specific records may be returned to the requesting client computer.

[019] In one embodiment, the storage function of the SOI database 22 may be configured to 1 ) associate source organism attributes with genetic components (including genes, sequences and biological molecules) responsible for those attributes; 2) associate products to product attributes that have been or will be enhanced with the synthetic genetic sequences 16; and 3) associate the synthetic genetic sequences 16 and/or the genetic sequence of interest with the enhanced products 26 in which the synthetic genetic sequences 16 are incorporated, and also associate the source organism attributes of the synthetic genetic sequences 16 and/or the genetic sequence of interest with the attributes of the products.

[020] In one embodiment, the search function of the SOI database 22 may be configured to receive and respond to genetic sequence queries by comparing product attributes with source organism attributes to select the genetic components responsible for the source organism attributes that most closely resemble the product attributes within a predetermined threshold. For example, when a product manufacturer 24 wishes to create a new type of enhanced product, the product manufacturer 24 may send a query 28 listing the traits or characteristics of the new product that are desired to be enhanced to the genetic sequence provider 18. The query 28 may be run on the SOI database 22 to find genetic sequences having matching attributes. Any found synthetic genetic sequences 16 that exist in the SOI repository 20 can then be provided to the requesting product manufacturer 24.

[021 ] In one embodiment, the genetic sequence provider 18 may host the SOI database 22 on a server 30 and make the SOI database 22 accessible over a network 30, such as the Internet, for online queries by third-party client devices (not shown) using a program such as browser. Examples of third parties who may access the SOI database 22 may include product manufacturers, marketing firms (not shown) and/or consumers 32 searching for enhanced products 26 to purchase, optionally online.

[022] In one embodiment, the genetic sequence provider 18 may maintain the SOI repository 20 and the sequence of interest database 22, as shown by box 18A. In this embodiment, a third party may operate the sequence and synthesis lab 14. In an alternative embodiment, the genetic sequence provider 18 may operate and maintain the sequence and synthesis lab 14 as well as the SOI repository 20 and the SOI database 22, as shown by box 18B. In another embodiment, a publically available database may also be used, such as the GenBank and the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), and replacement of, or in addition to, the SOI database 22.

[023] Both the server 30 and the client devices may include hardware components of typical computing devices (not shown), including a processor, input devices (e.g., keyboard, pointing device, microphone for voice commands, buttons, touchscreen, etc.), and output devices (e.g., a display device, speakers, and the like). The server 30 and client devices may include computer-readable media, e.g., memory and storage devices (e.g., flash memory, hard drive, optical disk drive, magnetic disk drive, and the like) containing computer instructions that implement the functionality disclosed when executed by the processor. The server 30 and the client devices may further include wired or wireless network communication interfaces for communication. Although the server 30 is shown as a single computer, it should be understood that the functions of server 30 may be distributed over more than one server 30.

[024] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a process for manufacturing an enhanced product by combining the product with synthetic genetic material, thereby increasing the merchandising value of the product.

[025] SELECT A GENETIC COMPONENT RESPONSIBLE FOR A DESIRED ATTRIBUTE

[026] The process may begin by selecting a genetic component responsible at least in part for a desired attribute of at least one source organism (block 200).

[027] The term "desired attribute" is intended to refer to one or more physical/emotional/spiritual characteristics, traits, abilities, or properties of the source organism; or a societal reputation/fame/opinion about the source organism. In one embodiment, the source organism may be selected by selecting one or more desired attributes that have a non-medicinal marketing relationship to the product to be enhanced, and identifying at least one source organism having the desired attributes.

[028] In one embodiment, selecting the genetic component responsible for the desired attribute may refer to selecting or identifying the name of a gene or sequence responsible for, or linked to, a desired attribute in whole or in part. For example, if the desired attribute is "blue eyes", then EYCL1 on chromosome 19 and EYCL3 on chromosome 15, may be selected or identified as the genetic component responsible for the desired attribute.

[029] In another embodiment, selecting the genetic component responsible for desired attribute may include first selecting or identifying a biological molecule (in whole in part), such as a protein, responsible for the desired attribute, where "responsible" in this context means that a protein is associated in whole or in part with the selected attribute, including regulatory RNA or DNA. After the biological molecule is selected, the genetic sequence associated with the biological molecule can be selected or identified, where "associated" in this context means that the genetic sequence encodes the biological molecule, regulates the biological molecule or expression thereof, or is itself the biological molecule.

[030] In the exemplary embodiment, the source organism is human, but in other embodiments, may include non-human animals, plants, fungi and bacterium. In the embodiment where the source organism is a human, the source organism is preferably a celebrity, or a well-known athlete or public figure to maximize marketability. For example, one might select attributes such as elegance and grace that would be desirable to associate with a product such as perfume, and then select a particular female celebrity exhibiting those attributes. Another approach could be to simply select the source organism based on the fame or notoriety of the source organism. In this case, the desired attribute would be fame and notoriety. For example, a celebrity such as Lady Gaga could be selected as a source organism due to her fame.

[031 ] In another embodiment, the source organism may be a consumer who may pay a premium to have a product tailored for the consumer by selecting the source organism. In one embodiment, the consumer could select genetic material of the consumer, a relative, or a friend for inclusion into the product. For example, a wife may order a heart-shaped pendant that is to be infused with the genetic material of one or more of her children.

[032] In another embodiment, the source organism may be a reference genome selected from a digital nucleic acid sequence database, which is assembled as a representative example of a species' set of genes. An example is GRCh37, which refers to Genome Reference Consortium human genome (build 37).

[033] In one embodiment, the genetic sequence provider 18 may select the genetic component responsible for the desired attribute. In an alternative embodiment, a third- party marketing firm or the product manufacturer 24 may identify the genetic sequence.

[034] In an exemplary embodiment, the genetic component responsible for the desired attribute may be selected using an electronic repository comprising a plurality of attributes associated with the source organism. In one embodiment, the electronic repository may comprise a database, a table, or a file (e.g., a spreadsheet). There are many publically available databases of genetic sequences for thousands of different organisms. Some of these databases further include the peptide sequences for which the genetic sequences code, links to similar proteins from other organisms, as well as other information about the protein such as protein-protein interaction networks and pathways based what has been published in and mined from the literature.

[035] According to one aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the SOI database 22 may be further configured to contain a mapping of genetic components to particular attributes of one or more different types of source organisms. In other words, one function of the sequence of interest database 22 may be to associate particular genetic components with particular attributes from a source organisms or reference organisms who's DNA has been sequenced. The term genetic components is intended to include genes, genetic sequences and/or biological molecules (e.g., proteins and peptides) A specific example would be a record in the database that maps the human attribute "strength" with muscle genes and/or proteins (e.g., myosin), for instance. Another function of the sequence of interest database 22 may be to associate both the genetic sequences extracted from the source organism and the corresponding desired attributes to particular products to be enhanced, as illustrated below.

[036] FIGS. 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating one embodiment for an example schema for the in the SOI database 22. FIG. 3A shows an example schema for a source organism table 300, while FIG. 3B shows an example schema for a product table 303.

[037] Referring to FIG. 3A, the source organism table 300 may include fields for the source organism 302, fields for the source attribute 304, fields for the genetic sequence 306, and field for the product 308. Fields for the source organism 302 may include an organism type 302A, species/genus 302B, a source organism name/ID 302C. The organism type 302A may include a designation of an organism type, e.g., human, animal, plant. The species/genus 302B may include a species/genus designation. And the source organism name/ID 302C may indicate a name or ID of a specific source organism, e.g. Lady Gaga.

[038] Fields for the source attribute 304 may include an attribute 304A, and one or more sub-attributes 304B. The attribute 304A may contain a description of the attribute, e.g., strength. And the sub-attribute 304B may include one or more fields for listing adjectives or qualities of the attribute 304A, e.g., high.

[039] Fields for the genetic sequence 306 may include a protein 306A and a nucleic acid sequence 306B. Fields for the product 308 may include at least a product ID 308A. The genetic sequence 306 may include a protein 306A and a nucleic acid sequence 306B responsible for the attribute listed in the attribute fields. Within the fields for the product 308, the product ID 308A may indicate a name or identification of the product combined (or to be combined) with the nucleic acid sequence identified in the fields for the genetic sequence 306.

[040] In one embodiment, fields for the genetic sequence 306 may further include a matrix barcode (e.g., QR™ code) or similar codes that may be used to identify each of the genetic sequences. Such embodiment may allow users to use their smart phones to search for genetic sequences or attributes that match specific parameters.

[041 ] Referring to FIG 3B, the product table 303 may contain fields for product attribute 320 and for product 322. The product attribute 320 fields may include attribute 320A and one more sub-attributes 302B. The product 322 may contain fields for the product ID 322A, the product manufacturer ID 322B, a component/ingredient 322C, and a component/ingredient supplier ID 322D.

[042] In an exemplary embodiment, the source organism table 300 and the product table 303 may be indexed by the source attribute 304 fields and the product attribute 320 fields and/or the product 308 and 322 fields. [043] According to another aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the sequence of interest database 22 may be configured to receive submission of queries containing a one or more desired attributes or a protein name and return one or more gene names or symbols responsible for the desired attributes or corresponding to the protein name. In addition, gene name or symbols may be searched for using organism and protein qualifiers such as genus species (organism). In one embodiment, queries pertaining to gene names or symbols may be received from the genetic sequence provider 18 and/or the product manufacturer 24.

[044] In another embodiment, the SOI database 22 may be configured to receive queries 28 requesting products infused with genetic material. The queries 28 may contain one or more desired attributes and return one more products infused with genetic sequences corresponding to those attributes. Products may be searched for using manufacturer and/or product type qualifiers. In one embodiment, queries 28 for searching by product names or types may be received by the genetic sequence provider 18, the product manufacturer 24. The queries may be generated by the genetic sequence provider 18, the product manufactured 24 or consumers searching for enhanced products to purchase.

[045] The comparison of sequences between a reference sequence for the desired attribute and the genetic sequence from the celebrity or chosen organism can be accomplished using mathematical algorithms known in the art. Preferred, non-limiting examples of such mathematical algorithms are an algorithm of Myers and Miller (1988); the search-for-similarity-method of Pearson and Lipman (1988); and that of Karlin and Altschul (1993). Preferably, computer implementations of these mathematical algorithms are utilized. Such implementations include, but are not limited to: CLUSTAL in the PC/Gene program (available from Intelligenetics, Mountain View, Calif.); the ALIGN program (Version 2.0), GAP, BESTFIT, BLAST, FASTA, Megalign (using Jotun Hein, Martinez, Needleman-Wunsch algorithms), DNAStar Lasergene (see www.dnastar.com) and TFASTA in the Wisconsin Genetics Software Package, Version 8 (available from Genetics Computer Group (GCG), 575 Science Drive, Madison, Wis., USA). Alignments using these programs can be performed using the default parameters or parameters selected by the operator. The CLUSTAL program is well described by Higgins. The ALIGN program is based on the algorithm of Myers and Miller; and the BLAST programs are based on the algorithm of Karlin and Altschul. Software for performing BLAST analyses is publicly available through the National Center for Biotechnology Information (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/).

[046] RECEIVE A SAMPLE OF GENETIC MATERIAL FROM THE SOURCE ORGANISM

[047] Referring again to FIG. 2, either before or after the genetic component is selected, a sample of genetic material from the at least one source organism may be optionally received (block 202). In one embodiment, a sample is required only when genetic material is required from a specific organism, e.g., a specific person or animal. Otherwise, a sample is unnecessary as the genetic component may be selected from a reference genome (e.g., generic versions of sequences) from a third party, such as Genbank. When genetic material is desired from a specific person or animal, for example, as opposed to any person or animal, the sample of genetic material is required per block 202.

[048] The term "sample" is intended to be used in its broadest sense and can be, by non-limiting example, any sample that is suspected of containing nucleic acids to be sequenced and characterized. Biological samples may include, but are not limited to, sputum, amniotic fluid, whole blood, blood cells (e.g., white cells), blood serum, urine, semen, hair, tissue specimens and tissue homogenates. Samples for plants may include tissue, roots, stems, leaves, flowers and seeds. Samples may also include sections of tissues such as frozen sections taken for histological purposes from any type of living or deceased organism. Techniques for sample collection and processing may be found, e.g., Tietz, Textbood of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, 4th Ed., Chapter 2, Burtis, C. Ashwood E. and Bruns, D, eds. (2006); Sampling and Sample Preparation for Field and Laboratory, (2002); Venkatesh Iyengar, G., et al., Element Analysis of Biological Samples: Priniciples and Practices (1998); Wells, D., High Throughput Bioanalytical Sample Preparation (Progress in Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis) (2002)), each of which is incorporated by reference. Alternatively, kits for obtaining nucleic acid samples that are commercially available may also be used.

[049] DETERMINE A GENETIC SEQUENCE OF INTEREST

[050] Referring again to FIG. 2, the genetic sequence provider 18 (and/or the sequence and synthesis lab 14) determines a genetic sequence of interest from the sample (if any) that corresponds to the selected genetic component (block 204). [051 ] As used herein, determining a genetic sequence of interest may include the process of purifying and sequencing the genetic material. In the embodiment where a specific source organism has been selected, the genetic sequence of interest is a version of a sequence specific to that source organism. In this case, the sequence of interest may be selected after the genetic material sample is sequenced.

[052] However, in the embodiment where a reference genome is selected as the source organism, the genetic sequence of interest represents a generic version of a sequence that is essentially the selected genetic component, which may be found in a database, e.g., Genbank. Thus, determining the sequence of interest in this embodiment refers to querying a database for the selected sequence, and generating sequence templates based on the queried sequence for subsequent synthesizing.

[053] According to one aspect of the exemplary embodiment, the genetic sequence of interest is selected that is unique to the source organism and/or encodes one or more types of biological molecules (or parts thereof) related to the desired attributes of the particular source organism that have a marketing relationship to attributes of the product to be marketed. For example, a fragrance could be infused with genes that are unique to a particular celebrity, a sports product might be combined with genes and/or proteins related to physical performance such as muscle genes/proteins (e.g., myosin) or adrenaline genes/proteins (e.g., adrenergic receptor), or a fragrance could be infused with genes/proteins that are related to love or the beating of the heart (e.g., L-type calcium channel). In one embodiment, multiple oligonucleotides that collectively define uniqueness of the source organism or that are associated with the desired attribute may be selected as the sequence of interest. In one embodiment, an amount of the genetic sequence of interest must be used that is sufficient to represent the source organism in a unique way, e.g., at least 10-20 base pairs.

[054] In one embodiment, the selected sequence of interest may be identical or similar to the sequence of genetic material derived from the sample. In an alternative embodiment, a selected genetic sequence of interest may be selected that is a modified version of one of the above or a completely artificial sequence. More particularly, the genetic sequence of interest may be modified to create a desired artificial genetic sequence from the genetic material. In one embodiment, the artificial nucleotide sequence may be 70% to 100% identical to the original sequence. In another embodiment the amino acid protein sequence encoded by the artificial nucleotide sequence may be 70% to 100% identical to the protein amino acid sequence encoded by the original sequence.

[055] In one embodiment, the genetic sequence of interest may comprise one or more of the following: a complete or partial genomic DNA sequence, a complete or partial translated DNA sequence, a complete or partial untranslated DNA sequence, a complete or partial coding DNA sequence (e.g., cDNA or expressed sequence tags (ESTs)), a complete or partial non-coding DNA sequence, a complete or partial intron DNA sequence, a complete or partial exon DNA sequence, a complete or partial gene sequence, a complete or partial RNA sequences, including microRNA, messenger RNA, ribosomal RNA, and/or a DNA coding sequence translated into a protein. The RNA or DNA may be single stranded or double stranded. [056] Determining the genetic sequence of interest may also include the sequence and synthesis lab 14 extracting, purifying and optionally quantifying the genetic material using methods well-known in the field. DNA isolation is a routine procedure that may be used to collect DNA from the sample for subsequent molecular or forensic analysis. There are three basic and two optional steps in a DNA extraction: breaking cells from a sample open, and which is commonly referred to as cell disruption or cell lysis, to expose the DNA within, commonly achieved by chemical and physical methods- blending, grinding or sonicating the sample; removing cellular membrane lipids by adding a detergent or surfactants; removing proteins by adding a protease (optional but almost always done), removing RNA by adding an RNase (also optional); and precipitating the DNA with an alcohol— usually ice-cold ethanol or isopropanol. Since DNA is insoluble in these alcohols, it can be precipitated upon centrifugation. The precipitation step also removes alcohol-soluble salt. Refinements of the technique include adding a chelating agent to sequester divalent cations such as Mg2+ and Ca2+, which prevents enzymes like DNAse from degrading the DNA. Cellular and histone proteins bound to the DNA can be removed either by adding a protease or by having precipitated the proteins with sodium or ammonium acetate, or extracted them with a phenol-chloroform mixture prior to the DNA-precipitation. DNA can be resolubilized in a slightly alkaline buffer or in ultra-pure water. There are reagents and kits commercially available for this purpose by, e.g., Roche Diagnostics (Indianapolis, IN), GenScript (Piscataway, NJ) and Qiagen (Valencia, CA).

[057] With genomic DNA samples most often the DNA must be fragmented. In the practice of the methods of the present invention, fragmentation of the DNA sample can be accomplished by any means known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Preferably, the fragmenting is performed by enzymatic or mechanical means. The mechanical means may be sonication or physical shearing, and the enzymatic means may be digestion with nucleases (e.g., Deoxyribonuclease I (DNAse I)) or one or more restriction endonucleases.

[058] RNA purification:

[059] RNA extraction is the purification of RNA from biological samples. RNA extraction is complicated by the ubiquitous presence of ribonuclease enzymes in cells and tissues, which can rapidly degrade RNA. Several methods are used in molecular biology to isolate RNA from samples, the most common of these is Guanidinium thiocyanate-phenol-chloroform extraction. As with DNA extraction, there are many commercially-available reagents and kits specifically tailored to RNA extraction and purification, including those from Promega (Madison, Wl), Qiagen (Valencia, CA) and Ambion/Life Technologies (Grand Island, NY).

[060] In vitro transcription:

[061 ] Transcription is the process of creating a complementary RNA copy of a sequence of DNA. During transcription, a DNA sequence is read by an RNA polymerase, which produces a complementary, antiparallel RNA strand. As opposed to DNA replication, transcription results in an RNA complement that includes uracil (U) in all instances where thymine (T) would have occurred in a DNA complement. Also unlike DNA replication where DNA is synthesized, transcription does not involve an RNA primer to initiate RNA synthesis. Transcription is the first step leading to gene expression. The stretch of DNA transcribed into an RNA molecule is called a transcription unit and encodes at least one gene. If the gene transcribed encodes a protein, the result of transcription is messenger RNA (mRNA), which will then be used to create the protein via the process of translation. Alternatively, the transcribed gene may encode for either non-coding RNA genes (such as microRNA, lincRNA, etc.) or ribosomal RNA (rRNA) or transfer RNA (tRNA), other components of the protein- assembly process, or other ribozymes. A DNA transcription unit encoding a protein contains not only the sequence that will eventually be directly translated into the protein— the coding sequence— but also regulatory sequences that direct and regulate the synthesis of that protein. In vitro transcription is the process of transcription taking place outside the cell in, e.g., a test tube, using selected RNA (whether generally from cell lysates or RNAs selected by sequence) and the enzyme and other factors necessary to translate the selected RNA. In vitro transcription kits are commercially available from, e.g., Promega (Madison, Wl) and Ambion/Life Technologies (Grand Island, NY).

[062] PCR:

[063] As used herein "polymerase chain reaction" or "PCR" refers to a technique for replicating a specific piece of target DNA in vitro, even in the presence of excess non-specific DNA. Primers are added to the target DNA, where the primers initiate the copying of the target DNA using nucleotides and, typically, Taq polymerase or the like. By cycling the temperature, the target DNA is repetitively denatured and copied. A single copy of the target DNA, even if mixed in with other, random DNA, can be amplified to obtain billions of replicates. The polymerase chain reaction can be used to detect and measure very small amounts of DNA and to create customized pieces of DNA. In some instances, linear amplification methods may be used as an alternative to PCR.

[064] PCR is well known in the art and is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,683,195 and 4,683,202 to Mullis and Mullis et al., respectively. PCR can be used to directly increase the concentration of the target nucleic acid sequence to a more readily detectable level. A variant of PCR is the ligase chain reaction, or LCR, which uses polynucleotides that are ligated together during each cycle. Amplification methods useful in the present invention include but are not limited to, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,683,195; and 4,683,202; PCR Technology: Principles and Applications for DNA Amplification, ed. H. A. Erlich, Freeman Press, NY, N.Y., 1992), ligase chain reaction (LCR) (Wu and Wallace, Genomics 4:560, (1989); Landegren et al., Science 241 :1077 (1988)), strand displacement amplification (SDA) (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,270,184; and 5,422,252), transcription-mediated amplification (TMA) (U.S. Pat. No. 5,399,491 ), linked linear amplification (LLA) (U.S. Pat. No. 6,027,923), and the like, self-sustained sequence replication (Guatelli et al., PNAS USA, 87:1874 (1990) and WO90/06995), selective amplification of target polynucleotide sequences (U.S. Pat. No. 6,410,276), consensus sequence primed polymerase chain reaction (CP-PCR) (U.S. Pat. No. 4,437,975), arbitrarily primed polymerase chain reaction (AP-PCR) (U.S. Pat. Nos. 5, 413,909, 5,861 ,245) and nucleic acid based sequence amplification (NASBA) (see, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,409,818, 5,554,517, and 6,063,603, each of which is incorporated herein by reference). Other amplification methods that may be used include: Qbeta Replicase, described in PCT Patent Application No. PCT7US87/00880, isothermal amplification methods such as SDA, described in Walker et al., Nucleic Acids Res. 20(7):1691 -6 (1992), and rolling circle amplification, described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,648,245. Yet other amplification methods that may be used are described in, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,242,794, 5,494,810, 4,988,617 and in U.S. Ser. No. 09/854,317 and US Pub. No. 20030143599, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some aspects DNA is amplified by multiplex locus-specific PCR. In a preferred aspect the DNA is amplified using adaptor- ligation and single primer PCR. Based on such methodologies, a person skilled in the art can readily design primers in any suitable regions 5' and 3' to a selected nucleic acid region of interest. Such primers may be used to amplify DNA of any length so long that it contains the selected nucleic acid region of interest in its sequence.

[065] Sequencing

[066] "Sequencing", "sequence determination" and the like refers to any determination of information relating to the nucleotide base sequence of a nucleic acid of interest. Such information may include the identification or determination of partial as well as full sequence information of the nucleic acid. In one aspect, the term includes the determination of the identity and ordering of a plurality of contiguous nucleotides in a nucleic acid. Any known sequencing method may be used. For example, sequencing may refer to conventional sequencing, such as the Sanger method or "dideoxy" chain- termination method. Sequencing may also refer to "High throughput digital sequencing" or "next generation sequencing," which are sequence determination methods that determine many (typically thousands to billions) of nucleic acid sequences in an intrinsically parallel manner, i.e. where DNA templates are prepared for sequencing not one at a time, but in a bulk process, and where many sequences are read out preferably in parallel, or alternatively using an ultra-high throughput serial process that itself may be parallelized. Such methods may include but are not limited to pyrosequencing (for example, as commercialized by 454 Life Sciences, Inc., Branford, CT); sequencing by ligation (for example, as commercialized in the SOLiD™ technology, Life Technology, Inc., Carlsbad, CA); sequencing by synthesis using modified nucleotides (such as commercialized in TruSeq™ and HiSeq™ technology by lllumina, Inc., San Diego, CA, HeliScope™ by Helicos Biosciences Corporation, Cambridge, MA, and PacBio RS by Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc., Menlo Park, CA), sequencing by ion detection technologies (Ion Torrent, Inc., South San Francisco, CA); sequencing of DNA nanoballs (Complete Genomics, Inc., Mountain View, CA); nanopore-based sequencing technologies (for example, as developed by Oxford Nanopore Technologies, LTD, Oxford, UK), and like highly-parallelized sequencing methods. Exemplary methods for sequence identification or determination include, but are not limited to, hybridization- based methods, such as disclosed in e.g., Drmanac, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,864,052; 6,309,824; and 6,401 ,267; and Drmanac et al, U.S. patent publication 2005/0191656; sequencing-by-synthesis methods, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,210,891 ; 6,828,100; 6,969,488; 6,897,023; 6,833,246; 6,91 1 ,345; 6,787,308; 7,297,518; 7,462,449 and 7,501 ,245; US Publication Application Nos. 201 10059436; 200401061 10; 20030064398; and 20030022207; Ronaghi, et al, Science, 281 : 363-365 (1998); and Li, et al, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 100: 414-419 (2003); ligation-based methods, e.g., U.S. Patent Nos. 5,912,148 and 6,130,073; and U.S. Pat. Appln Nos. 20100105052, 20070207482 and 20090018024; nanopore sequencing e.g., U.S. Pat. Appln Nos. 2007003651 1 ; 20080032301 ; 20080128627; 20090082212; and Soni and Meller, Clin Chem 53: 1996-2001 (2007)), as well as other methods, e.g., U.S. Pat. Appln Nos. 201 10033854; 20090264299; 20090155781 ; and 20090005252; also, see, McKernan, et al., Genome Res., 19:1527-41 (2009) and Bentley, et al., Nature 456:53-59 (2008), all of which are incorporated herein in their entirety for all purposes.

[067] Genetic differences between individuals in organisms of all species include single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), insertions, deletions, translocations and aneuploidies of whole and partial chromosomes. As would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the sequencing methods above can be used to detect SNPs and other structural variants to determine genetic sequences of interest that are unique to the specific source organism.

[068] Rather than sequencing, genotyping may also be used to determine differences in the genetic make-up (genotype) of an individual by examining the individual's DNA sequence using biological assays and comparing it to another individual's sequence or a reference sequence. Examples of current methods of genotyping include restriction fragment length polymorphism identification (RFLPI) of genomic DNA, random amplified polymorphic detection (RAPD) of genomic DNA, amplified fragment length polymorphism detection (AFLPD), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA sequencing, allele specific oligonucleotide (ASO) probes, and hybridization to DNA microarrays or beads.

[069] CHEMICAL SYNTHESIS [070] Referring to FIG. 2, After the genetic sequence of interest is determined by extracting, purifiying, amplifying, sequencing, potentially modifying the sequence code, and potentially choosing only a part or parts of the sequence, copies of the genetic sequence of interest are synthesized to create synthetic genetic sequences the genetic material (step 206). In one embodiment, the genetic sequence of interest is chemically synthesized using synthetic methods of manufacture.

[071 ] For example, oligonucleotide (i.e., nucleic acids sequences) synthesis may be achieved through chemical synthesis of relatively short fragments of nucleic acids of defined sequence. This technique provides a rapid and relatively inexpensive access to custom-made oligonucleotides of a desired sequence. Whereas enzymes synthesize DNA and RNA in a 5' to 3' direction, chemical oligonucleotide synthesis typically is carried out in the opposite, 3' to 5' direction. Currently, the process is implemented as solid-phase synthesis using the phosphoramidite method and phosphoramidite building blocks derived from protected 2'-deoxynucleosides (dA, dC, dG, and T), ribonucleosides (A, C, G, and U), or chemically modified nucleosides, e.g., LNA. To obtain the desired oligonucleotide, the nucleotide building blocks are sequentially coupled to the growing oligonucleotide chain in the order required by the sequence of the product. The process has been fully automated since the late 1970s. Upon the completion of the chain assembly, the oligonucleotide product is released from the solid phase to solution, deprotected, and collected. Products are often purified by HPLC to obtain the desired oligonucleotides in high purity. Typically, synthetic oligonucleotides are single-stranded DNA or RNA molecules around 15-75 bases in length, although oligonucleotides may be ligated together to create longer stretches of DNA by methods known in the art. To obtain oligonucleotides or nucleic acids sequences of greater length than is practical using the phosphoramidite method, one may synthsize cDNAs. Though there are several methods for synthesizing cDNAs, cDNA is most often synthesized from mature (fully spliced) mRNA using the enzyme reverse transcriptase. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is a variant of polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It is a laboratory technique commonly used in molecular biology where an RNA strand is reverse transcribed into its DNA complement (complementary DNA, or cDNA) using the enzyme reverse transcriptase, and the resulting cDNA is amplified using PCR. The exponential amplification via reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction provides for a highly sensitive technique in which even very low copy number of RNA molecules can be detected. Reverse transcriptase operates on a single strand of mRNA, generating its complementary DNA based on the pairing of RNA base pairs (A, U, G and C) to their DNA complements (T, A, C and G respectively). The following steps are used in a typical process to obtain eukaryotic cDNA whose introns have been removed: first, a eukaryotic cell transcribes the DNA (from genes) into RNA (pre-mRNA). Second, the same cell processes the pre-mRNA strands by removing introns, and adding a poly- A tail and 5' Methyl-Guanine cap. Third, this mixture of mature mRNA strands is extracted from the cell. The Poly-A tail of the post transcription mRNA can be used to isolate the mRNA from other nucleic acids in the cells using oligo(dT) beads in an affinity chromatography assay.

[072] Next, a poly-T oligonucleotide primer is hybridized onto the poly-A tail of the mature mRNA template, or random hexamer primers can be added which contain every possible 6 base single strand of DNA and can therefore hybridize anywhere on the RNA. This is done because reverse transcriptase requires this double-stranded segment as a primer to start its operation. Next, reverse transcriptase is added, along with deoxynucleotide triphosphates (A, T, G, C), to synthesize one complementary strand of DNA hybridized to the original mRNA strand. To synthesize an additional DNA strand, the RNA of the hybrid strand is digested or eliminated using an enzyme like RNase H. After digestion of the RNA, a single stranded DNA remains and because single stranded nucleic acids are hydrophobic, it tends to loop around itself to form a hairpin loop at the 3' end. From the hairpin loop, a DNA polymerase can then use it as a primer to transcribe a complementary sequence for the single-stranded cDNA. Alternatively, a short DNA primer may be used to synthesize the second copy. A DNA polymerase is added along with deoxynucleotide triphosphates (A, T, G, C) and the second strand is formed leaving a double stranded cDNA with identical sequence as the mRNA (sequence) of interest. Synthesizing cDNAs is an optimal method of obtaining longer DNA sequences of interest. Kits for performing reverse transcription are commercially available from, e.g., Invitrogen/Life Technologies (Grand Island, NY) and Qiagen (Valencia, CA).

[073] The synthetic genetic sequences that result from the processes above, have an identical or very similar nucleotide base sequence to the starting DNA or RNA sequence or sequences of interest.

[074] An alternative approach would be to take a small amount of genetic material derived as described above and using PCR to amplify the genetic material. After sufficient rounds of amplification and dilution, the original genetic material could be diluted to an arbitrarily high level. At a sufficiently high level of dilution, the genetic material is effectively synthetic.

[075] COMBINE PRODUCT WITH GENETIC MATERIAL

[076] Referring still to FIG. 2, after copies of the genetic sequence of interest are synthesized, the synthetic genetic sequences are provided to a manufacturer, wherein the manufacturer combines the synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising a product during manufacture to produce an enhanced product infused with the synthetic genetic sequences (step 208).

[077] As used herein, the term "components" is intended to include ingredients, materials, parts and the like, comprising the product to be enhanced with genetic material. The term "manufacturer" is intended to include the product manufacturer 24 who ultimately assembles or manufacturers the enhanced product, or a supplier of a component or ingredient of the product.

[078] In one embodiment, the genetic sequence provider 18 may provide the synthetic genetic sequences 16 directly to the product manufacturer 24 who during manufacture of the product, combines the synthetic genetic sequences 16 with components comprising the product to produce an enhanced product 26. In an alternative embodiment, the genetic sequence provider 18 may provide the synthetic genetic sequences 16 to a supplier of a component or ingredient of the product who infuses or combines the synthetic genetic sequences 16 with a component or ingredient comprising the product and then provides the component or ingredient incorporating the genetic material to the product manufacturer 24. [079] In a further embodiment, the sequence and synthesis lab 14 may provide the synthetic genetic sequences 16 to the product manufacturer 24 and/or the component/ingredient supplier.

[080] Below are two scenarios of the process shown in FIG. 2 continuing with the Lady Gaga example:

[081 ] Scenario 1

[082] 1 . Select source organism and attribute - Lady Gaga's fame.

[083] 2. Select genetic component associated with that attribute - Lady Gaga's genomic DNA.

[084] 3. Receive sample from Lady Gaga - Lady Gaga's saliva.

[085] 4. Produce genetic sequence data of all or part of Lady Gaga's genomic DNA by extracting, purifying, sequencing, and the like.

[086] 5. Choose all or parts of Lady Gaga's genomic DNA data sequence as the sequence(s) of interest. This includes searching genetic sequence data for those sub sequences that are interest, which could comprise sub-sequences that uniquely define a human; or sub-sequences that are associated with particular genes such as brain or heart. In the case of particular genes, the generic version of the gene may be determined by searching a database such as Genbank. Lady Gaga's version of the gene may be searched for in the data and selected.

[087] 6. Synthesize sequence(s) of interest. [088] 7. Combine the synthetic sequences with other product component to make an enhanced product.

[089] Scenario 2

[090] 1 . Select source organism and attribute - Lady Gaga's fame

[091 ] 2. Select genetic component associated with that attribute. This includes selecting parts of Lady Gaga's genomic DNA that uniquely define a human; or selecting particular genes or pieces of genes such as brain or heart genes. The generic versions of these genes can be found in a database like Genbank. In this case, these are generic or reference versions of the sequences of interest.

[092] 3. Receive sample from Lady Gaga - Lady Gaga's saliva.

[093] 4. Produce genetic sequence data on parts of Lady Gaga's genomic DNA that include regions that cover the sequences of interest by extracting, purifying, sequencing, and the like. This produces genetic sequence data that includes her specific versions of the sequence(s) of interest.

[094] 5. Choose all or parts of Lady Gaga's genomic DNA data sequence that include the sequence(s) of interest. Sequence data is searched for those sequences that are of interest; these are her specific versions of those sequences of interest.

[095] 6. Synthesize sequence(s) of interest.

[096] 7. Combine synthetic sequences with other product component to make an enhanced product. [097] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the process for manufacturing an enhanced product in which a perfume is infused with human synthesized cardiac genes, according to one specific embodiment. The process may begin by receiving a human biological sample (e.g., saliva) from a selected person, such as a celebrity or a paying consumer (block 400). Genetic material from the biological sample is extracted, purified and/or quantified (block 402), which produces genomic DNA 404. The genomic DNA 404 is then sequenced (block 406), which produces a genomic DNA sequence 408. Desired genomic DNA cardiac sequences (e.g., genes) are then selected from the genomic DNA sequence (block 410), which produces desired genomic DNA cardiac sequences 412. The step of selecting the desired genomic DNA cardiac sequences may correspond to the steps in FIG. 2 of selecting a genetic component responsible at least in part for the desired attribute (block 202) and determining a genetic sequence of interest from the sample corresponding to selected genetic component (block 204). In addition, the resulting desired genomic DNA cardiac sequences may correspond to the genetic sequence of interest referred to in FIG. 2.

[098] Oligonucleotide synthesis is then performed on the desired genomic DNA cardiac sequences (block 414), which produces synthetic genomic DNA cardiac sequences 416. The synthetic genetic DNA cardiac sequences 416 may correspond to the synthetic genetic sequences referred to in FIG. 2.

[099] The synthetic genomic DNA cardiac sequences 416 may then be combined with fragrances, water, alcohol and other perfume components 418 to create a perfume infused with synthetic genomic DNA cardiac sequences 420. [0100] After a product is identified for enhancing according to the methods disclosed herein, or after an enhanced product is created, the sequence of interest database 22 may be updated to record which genetic sequences of interest are combined into which enhanced products and from which manufacturers/suppliers.

[0101 ] Referring again to FIGS. 3A and 3B, for example, assume that a perfume has been created with Lady Gaga's DNA and that the product table 303 and the source organism table 300 have been updated. In this example, the product table 303 could be updated to include which attribute 320 or attributes of the product are being enhanced or marketed (attribute 320A), along with the name of the product (product ID 322A), the name of the perfume manufacturer (product manufacturer 322B) and optionally, the name of a specific ingredient infused with the DNA (component/ingredient 322C) as well as the name of the ingredient supplier (component/ingredient supplier 322D).

[0102] Likewise, the source organization table 300 could also be updated, such as shown in the second row of the table, which identifies Lady Gaga as the source organism (source organism name/ID 202C), the one or more desired attributes associated with Lady Gaga (attribute 304A and sub-attribute 304B), a nucleic acid sequence that is unique to Lady Gaga (nucleic acid sequence 306B), and the name of the perfume in which the unique nucleic acid sequences is infused (product ID 308A).

[0103] Below, are exemplary sample compositions and products that may be produced by combining products with one or more synthetic genetic sequences, such as synthetic DNA, according to exemplary embodiments:

[0104] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of a fragrance - an example is a fragrance infused with synthetic DNA of a consumer's favorite person (celebrity, lover, partner, best friend) or even the consumers own DNA.

[0105] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of a cosmetic - examples include skincare, hair, personal and health care products. For example, shampoo with synthetic DNA from Jennifer Lopez or mascara with synthetic DNA from Katy Perry.

[0106] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of fabric - examples include clothes, linens, and towels. For instance, sports star DNA could be put into athletic wear, clothes, shoes, etc. and branded as "Jump with Mike" or "Swim with Phelps"; or commemorative robes could be produced with the synthetic DNA of Supreme Court justices.

[0107] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of an article of jewelry - examples include keepsakes, such as wedding rings, lockets, bracelets, necklaces and watches containing DNA. The DNA could be from a person or an animal, such as a spouse or a pet.

[0108] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of an electronic device - examples include headphones, smartphones, TVs, cameras, music players, tablets, computers and other consumer electronics. For example, DNA from the band U2 in limited edition electronic devices or DNA from a CEO of Apple in Apple products.

[0109] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of a consumable - examples include food, candy, snacks, beverages, and sport drinks. For example, a soft drink marketed as liquid courage that include DNA snippets related to "courage" that could be endorsed by rock or sports stars and optionally released in limited editions.

[01 10] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of houseware and home decor products for the kitchen, office, dining, bed, bath, cleaning, organization, and furniture - examples include a cooking utensil (with, e.g., synthetic DNA from Martha Stewart), a pen, glass, coffee mug, dish, rug, and other household articles.

[01 1 1 ] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of entertainment materials - examples include a book, a compact disc, a DVD, Blu-Ray disc, and a videogame package disc.

[01 12] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of an article of sports equipment - examples include a helmet, a ball, shoes, sport clothing, a stick, a racket, a bat, gloves, glasses, a hat, a bag, a pad, and the like, and collectibles such as baseballs cards, could contain the synthetic DNA of a sports star.

[01 13] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of a mode of transportation- examples include cars (with, e.g., a winning NASCAR® driver's DNA), boats, planes and the like.

[01 14] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of art - examples include paintings (with, e.g., the artist's or muses DNA), drawings, photography, sculpture, and other art on paper, canvas, and mixed medium. Genetic signatures could be used to prove authenticity or ownership, for example.

[01 15] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of musical instruments - examples guitars, violins, cellos, drumsticks, microphones (with, e.g., the artist's or rock star's DNA)

[01 16] Synthetic genetic sequences combined with components of building materials - examples paint, concrete, wood, carpet, tile (with, e.g., the architect or designers DNA or DNA from family members or companies occupying or commemorating the house or building).

[01 17] The amount of the synthetic genetic sequences comprising the enhanced products may vary based on the type of product involved. However, in one embodiment at least one of the synthetic genetic sequences is at least 10-20 nucleotide bases in length. In another embodiment, there is at least one copy of one of the synthetic genetic sequences per gram of the enhanced product. In another embodiment, there is at least one copy of one of the synthetic genetic sequences per milliliter of the enhanced product. In another embodiment, liquid enhanced products may be diluted such that there is at least one synthetic genetic sequence per dose.. In another embodiment, there is at least one femtogram of synthetic genetic sequences per gram of the enhanced product. In one embodiment, the synthetic genetic sequences may be added to nutritional supplements (e.g. workout with Arnold) and marketed to exercisers, adventures, and risk takers, where the synthetic genetic sequences are incorporated in various concentrations of strength, courage, endurance, and the like. For example, different versions of popular drinks (e.g. Red Bull) favored by risk takers could be produced with different concentrations (e.g. 1 x, 2x, 10x) of the same or different types of synthetic genetic sequences. [01 18] In another embodiment, the enhanced product may be vaporized to provide another delivery mechanism for products such as room fresheners and body sprays for example.

[01 19] As described above, the synthetic genetic sequences may originate from any living or deceased human or animal (even plants), and the synthetic genetic sequences may resemble the original genetic material will comprise a completely artificial genetic sequence that is not similar to any naturally occurring structures. For example an artificial genetic sequence of an imaginary person could be created e.g., artificial DNA of an imaginary superhero, a deity or a dinosaur. In another embodiment, the DNA of a dead person could be re-created, such as Einstein or a deceased relative, or DNA for different desired attributes from a group of celebrities may be combined into an enhanced product. Personalized products can also be made from a consumer's own DNA.

[0120] With respect to merchandising, such enhanced products to be marketed as embodying the personality of the person or animal's genetic sequence that is infused into the product. Entire pipelines could be created based around a desired attribute, such as love, where products are paired around finding love or being seductive. For instance an entire line of lingerie, bed sheets, candles, bath salts, massage oils, etc. could be mixed with sequences pertaining to pheromones.

[0121 ] Products have been disclosed that are prepared by a process that combines components comprising the product with one or more synthetic genetic sequences. The present invention has been described in accordance with the embodiments shown, and there could be variations to the embodiments, and any variations would be within the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the exemplary embodiment can be implemented using hardware, software, a computer readable medium containing program instructions, or a combination thereof. Software written according to the present invention is to be either stored in some form of computer-readable medium such as a memory, a hard disk, or a CD/DVD-ROM and is to be executed by a processor. Accordingly, many modifications may be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS We Claim:

1 . A fragrance product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

selecting a genetic component responsible at least in part for a desired attribute of at least one source organism;

determining a genetic sequence of interest that corresponds to the selected genetic component;

synthesizing copies of the genetic sequence of interest to create the one or more synthetic genetic sequences; and

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the fragrance product.

2. A cosmetic product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the cosmetic product.

3. A fabric product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the fabric product.

4. A jewelry product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the jewelry product.

5. An electronic device product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the electronic device product.

6. An edible consumable product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the edible consumable product.

7. A houseware product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the houseware product.

8. An entertainment product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the entertainment product.

9. A transportation product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the transportation product.

10. A sports equipment product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the sports equipment product.

1 1 . An art product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising: selecting a genetic component responsible at least in part for a desired attribute of at least one source organism;

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the art product.

12. A musical instrument product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

determining a genetic sequence of interest that corresponds to the selected genetic component; and

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the musical instrument product.

13. A building material product combined with one or more synthetic genetic sequences prepared by a process comprising:

combining the one or more synthetic genetic sequences with at least one component comprising the building material product.