Application of fetal DNA detection in maternal plasma: a prenatal diagnosis unit experience.
Non-invasive prenatal diagnosis tests based on the analysis of fetal DNA in maternal plasma have potential to be a safer alternative to invasive methods. So far, different studies have shown mainly fetal sex, fetal RhD, and quantitative variations of fetal DNA during gestation with fetal chromosomal anomalies or gestations at risk for preeclampsia. The objective of our research was to evaluate the use of fetal DNA in maternal plasma for clinical application. In our study, we have established the methodology needed for the analysis of fetal DNA. Different methods were used, according to the requirements of the assay. We have used quantitative fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) to perform fetal sex detection with 90% sensitivity. The same technique permitted the detection of fetal DNA from the 10th week of gestation to hours after delivery. We have successfully carried out the diagnosis of two inherited disorders, cystic fibrosis (conventional PCR and restriction analysis) and Huntington disease (QF-PCR). Ninety percent of the cases studied for fetal RhD by real-time PCR were correctly diagnosed. The detection of fetal DNA sequences is a reality and could reduce the risk of invasive techniques for certain fetal disorders in the near future.
González-González
Cristina
C
Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Genetica, Avda Reyes Catolicos 2, Madrid, 28040, Spain. cgonzalezg@megalab.es
Garcia-Hoyos
Maria
M
Trujillo-Tiebas
M Jose
MJ
Lorda-Sanchez
Isabel
I
de Alba
Marta Rodríguez
MR
Infantes
Fernando
F
Gallego
Jesus
J
Diaz-Recasens
Joaquín
J
Ayuso
Carmen
C
Ramos
Carmen
C
D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics; D004247:DNA / Q000097:blood*; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000235:genetics; D005333:Fetus; D005453:Fluorescence; D006801:Humans; D006816:Huntington Disease / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics; D009154:Mutation; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D011247:Pregnancy; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D012204:Rh-Hr Blood-Group System / Q000235:genetics; D012732:Sex Determination Analysis / Q000379:methods
D012204:Rh-Hr Blood-Group System; C026410:Rho(D) antigen; D004247:DNA