Maternal blood testing is a safe and effective tool for identifying chromosomal abnormalities during pregnancy. The method of detection, called non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), involves a simple blood screen which allows scientists to analyze DNA. This process is less invasive than the commonly used chorionic villus sampling, allowing for a more comfortable experience for willing donors. StemExpress Foundation has long supported the commercial development of NIPT. These tests are important to ensure that expecting mothers are able to obtain the most accurate information concerning their child’s health. Maternal blood samples provide researchers with the genetic material needed to continue the development and advancement of NIPT screening.

Researchers now know that the fetal genetic material found in maternal blood can be used to screen for fetal aneuploidies and other chromosomal abnormalities. Maternal blood plasma contains a variety of cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors that provide information needed to monitor the health of mothers and their unborn children. Additionally, cell-free DNA from the fetus, present in maternal plasma, can be used to develop screens and diagnostic tests to determine genetic abnormalities. Researchers are inventing kits that can determine the levels of Placental Growth Factor (PlGF) in maternal serum, which can aid in the detection of pre-eclampsia in women and Down’s syndrome in the fetus. Connecting researchers with willing donors allows for further advancements in research that will benefit expectant mothers for generations to come.

We offer onsite training to ensure that the collection process has little to no impact on your regular business and patient care. The blood sample is procured via a whole blood draw. This 10-15 minute procedure can be done during a routine exam, so as to not inconvenience your patients. Patients can also come to any StemExpress Stem Cell Collection Center to participate in research that helps to improve early detection of fetal abnormalities.

All StemExpress Foundation technicians have been trained in HIPAA, NIH consenting procedures, and hospital and blood-borne pathogen safety. Additionally, our collection process utilizes custom tools and techniques to achieve the largest possible draw volume, making every donation count.

Partner with StemExpress Foundation to directly impact the biomedical research that's helping patients worldwide. Through StemExpress Foundation, your facility can participate in life-changing medical advancements by providing researchers with the maternal blood samples they need. Give your patients the opportunity to participate in life-changing research. Contact StemExpress Foundation to find out more about how your facility can accelerate medical research.