Non-invasive testing for fetal genetic abnormalities using maternal blood.

Non-Invasive Prenatal Diagnostics Based on Circulating Trophoblasts

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10675005

This study is testing a new, safe way for pregnant women to check their baby's health by looking at tiny cells in their blood, which can help find any genetic issues early on without any risky procedures.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10675005 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a non-invasive prenatal diagnostic technology that analyzes circulating trophoblasts (cTBs) found in maternal blood. By enriching and counting these cells, the study aims to isolate single cTBs to detect fetal genetic abnormalities during the first trimester of pregnancy. The approach utilizes advanced nanomaterial-embedded diagnostic platforms, known as NanoVelcro Chips, to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the testing process. This innovative method could provide expectant mothers with critical information about their baby's health without the risks associated with invasive procedures.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women in their first trimester who are seeking non-invasive testing for potential fetal genetic issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those in later stages of pregnancy may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more accurate method for detecting fetal genetic abnormalities early in pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using non-invasive methods for prenatal diagnostics, but this specific approach utilizing cTBs is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.