Multiplicom (Niel) launched a new non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT), Clarigo™, based on a blood sample. Genetic analysis of the baby’s DNA, which is present in the blood of the mother, enables the detection of Down’s syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards’ syndrome (trisomy 18) and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13). This test can be performed as early as 8 weeks into pregnancy.

Thanks to the increased sensitivity and reliability of this test compared to the current test to detect trisomy, a large number of pregnant women will be spared from the invasive amniocentesis procedure. If a genetic abnormality is found, the pregnant woman will be referred to the classic invasive procedure to confirm the result.

Multiplicom hopes to include the test in the current prenatal testing program for pregnant women. “The test will provide much greater reassurance and comfort during pregnancy,” says Dirk Pollet, CEO of Multiplicom.