Gene research centre develops new Downs test
Posted: October 30, 2014 at 7:54 pm
A NEW test for Downs syndrome could spare mothers-to-be the stress of amniocentesis and other invasive procedures.
Oxford Gene Technologys method checks an unborn babys DNA simply by analysing a blood sample from its mum. More accurate than existing blood tests or ultrasound scans, it is also safer for the foetus.
The Begbroke Science Park firm, which specialises in genetic research, has adapted its technology to work in pre-natal clinics.
The test can be used instead of amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, where a needle is pushed through the stomach wall to collect amniotic fluid for testing.
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Microbiologist Dr John Anson, who is president of research and development at Oxford Gene Technology, said: Blood is tested using a microscope glass slide which is printed with tiny spots of DNA in a sequence designed to bond to specific regions of DNA.
The spots act like biological magnets, which means we can be very selective about which part of the foetuss DNA we analyse.
OGT has finished pre-clinical trials and will now go ahead with large-scale testing.
If successful, it could be granted approval within 12 months, paving the way for the test to become available in ante-natal clinics.
Dr Anson added: This test is less risky for the unborn baby, carries less chance of infection and is potentially cost-saving.
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Gene research centre develops new Downs test