Abstract
The discovery of nucleated erythrocytes in maternal circulation provides a potential source for non-invasive prenatal diagnosis. We have evaluated the use of a three-stage procedure to determine the number of cells that are of fetal rather than maternal origin. First, monoclonal antibodies specific for CD45 and CD14 were used in conjunction with a magnetic (MACS) column to deplete unwanted leukocytes from maternal blood. This was followed by a positive MACS enrichment for nucleated erythrocytes, using an anti-CD71 (transferrin receptor) monoclonal antibody. To discriminate between fetal nucleated erythrocytes and those of maternal origin, enriched fractions were simultaneously stained with an anti-fetal haemoglobin (HbF) antibody and hybridized with probes specific for X and Y chromosomes. Samples were then subjected to blind analysis along with negative control samples from non-pregnant volunteers. Using this dual analysis, we were able to determine that less than one nucleated erythrocyte per ml of maternal blood was of fetal origin. Small numbers of these fetal cells were found in 87.5% of pregnancies, ranging from 6 to 35 weeks gestational age. Comparison of HbF and X/Y probe data also suggests that the fetal cells are less suitable for fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH) analysis than similar preparations from other sources.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
