Laboratory Releases Enhanced Microarray for Prenatal Diagnosis

An enhanced microarray enables prenatal detection of chromosome abnormalities that result in missing or extra pieces of DNA.

The enhanced PrenatalChip targets over 100 discrete chromosomal regions, the gain or loss of which results in a genetic disorder, while minimizing coverage of regions of unknown clinical significance. If more coverage is required, the whole-genome microarray is available--especially in cases with abnormal findings by ultrasound.

The enhanced PrenatalChip is the first level of Signature Genomic laboratories' (Spokane, WA, USA) prenatal service. "Pregnancy can be a time of great anxiety, particularly if a genetic disorder is suspected,” said Justine Coppinger, certified genetic counselor at Signature. "We approach prenatal diagnosis responsibly, balancing timely, comprehensive diagnoses with the desire to minimize anxiety over unclear results. We encourage physicians to discuss the most appropriate test for their patients with our certified genetic counselors.”

Signature Genomic Laboratories was the first laboratory to provide microarray-based cytogenetic diagnostics with its proprietary SignatureChip and is a supplier of microarray-based chromosome analysis. Signature's worldwide clients include clinical geneticists, neurologists, pediatricians, neonatologists, obstetricians, and the research community.

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