International Biosciences Launches New, Risk-Free Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Test

Johannesburg, South Africa – November 1, 2013 – International Biosciences, a leading company in the field of DNA paternity testing, genetic testing and forensic analysis, has recently launched a risk free, blood-based prenatal paternity test. The test was introduced by the company as part of its long-term business strategy which aims to increase its range of services and meet current trends and client demands within the field of DNA testing during pregnancy. The test was developed by Natera, a privately held genetics company, formerly known under the name of Gene Security Network.

A company spokesman has stated that “this non invasive prenatal paternity test has revolutionized how we look at prenatal tests”. One of the principal advantages that this test has over other invasive fetal DNA sampling methods such as amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling or percutaneous umbilical cord sampling is the fact that it is risk free and carries no chance of misdiagnosis. Expanding further on the safety of the test, International Biosciences states that “extracting samples of amniotic fluid, taking tissue samples from the membranes that surround the fetal membranes and other such methods all entail certain risks, the worst being spontaneous abortion of the fetus as a result of the stress caused by the procedure or by simple human error. The alternative of a 100% risk free test is a huge relief to our clients”. The company also highlights other advantages of this test, including the fact it that can be carried out far earlier in pregnancy than other tests such as amniocentesis. In fact, the company offers its non invasive testing at only 10 weeks. Furthermore, whilst one would need to have any sample used for an invasive test collected by an obstetrician, International Biosciences notes how its non invasive test only requires a simple medical blood draw which can be carried out by any phlebotomist, nurse or doctor.

A laboratory scientist explains how the test has been scientifically researched and validated and emphasizes the scientific backing to this test that uses cell-free fetal DNA in the maternal blood samples. Asked to elucidate further on the presence of fetal DNA in the peripheral maternal blood stream, the laboratory representative explains that “we have two blood streams involved here – the fetal-placental and the maternal-placental vascular systems. The placenta receives blood from both these two circulatory systems and although it theoretically keeps the two blood streams separate from each other, in reality small numbers of fetal DNA cells and fragments cross the placenta and enter the maternal blood stream. Using very advanced testing methods we are able to isolate these fetal single nucleotide polymorphisms and distinguish the fetal DNA in the blood sample from that of the mother in order to conclude our test”.

The test is offered by IBDNA in all its markets, including the UK, Ireland, Canada and Italy. Samples for this test are collected using International Biosciences’ own prenatal kit provides with the forms, appropriate blood collection tubes, pre-paid courier service and special packaging for the shipment of blood samples.

In a concluding remark, the International Sales and Marketing director for the company states that “We are really glad to be able to offer our clients this safe alternative. Although we do offer clients the option of invasive paternity testing with samples of amniotic fluid or chorionic villi, we always emphasize the risks of such tests and stress the fact that the full risks will be outlined before the procedure – with a non invasive test our clients can eliminate all worries and concerns of any unpleasant side effects or risks.”

Notes for Editors:
About International Biosciences

International Biosciences offer a wide range of DNA testing services, including paternity, siblingship and other relationship tests as well as DNA tests for immigration purposes, child custody cases and even DNA ancestry research.

IBDNA also provide a comprehensive website, www.ibdna.co.za, detailing every aspect of the DNA testing process, showing everything from the differences between home DNA testing and legal DNA tests, to consent issues and understanding the final results report.

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