Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for determining zygosity of a multiple-fetus pregnancy using a biological sample taken from the mother. The fetal and maternal DNA in the sample (e.g. plasma) can be analyzed for a particular chromosomal region to identify genetic differences in the fetuses. For example, a normalized parameter for the measure of a primary or secondary allele can show variances for different chromosomal regions when fetuses are dizygotic. Such a variance can be determined relative to an expected value if the fetuses were genetically identical. Statistical methods are provided for analyzing the variation of the normalized parameters to determine fetal DNA concentration and the maternal-fetal mixed genotype at various loci. Parental genotype and haplotype information can also be used to identify inheritance of different parental haplotypes to indicate genetic differences among the fetuses.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for determining increased risk of premature birth in a pregnant woman by detecting altered expression level of one or more marker genes in the woman's blood. A kit and device useful for such a method are also provided. In addition, the present invention provides a method for preventing or reducing the likelihood of premature birth.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for determining zygosity of a multiple-fetus pregnancy using a biological sample taken from the mother. The fetal and maternal DNA in the sample (e.g. plasma) can be analyzed for a particular chromosomal region to identify genetic differences in the fetuses. For example, a normalized parameter for the measure of a primary or secondary allele can show variances for different chromosomal regions when fetuses are dizygotic. Such a variance can be determined relative to an expected value if the fetuses were genetically identical. Statistical methods are provided for analyzing the variation of the normalized parameters to determine fetal DNA concentration and the maternal-fetal mixed genotype at various loci. Parental genotype and haplotype information can also be used to identify inheritance of different parental haplotypes to indicate genetic differences among the fetuses.

Abstract: It provides a method for predicting the risk of an adverse pregnancy or neonatal outcome for a pregnant subject by detecting the elevated level of bacteria from one or more selected bacterial taxa (e.g., genera or species). A kit useful for such a method is also provided. In addition, it provides a method for determining the risk of having advanced cervical dilation and/or premature cervical shortening based on differentially abundant bacterial taxa.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for determining increased risk of premature birth in a pregnant woman by detecting altered expression level of one or more marker genes in the woman's blood. A kit and device useful for such a method are also provided. In addition, the present invention provides a method for preventing or reducing the likelihood of premature birth.

Abstract: It provides a method for predicting the risk of an adverse pregnancy or neonatal outcome for a pregnant subject by detecting the elevated level of bacteria from one or more selected bacterial taxa (e.g., genera or species). A kit useful for such a method is also provided. In addition, it provides a method for determining the risk of having advanced cervical dilation and/or premature cervical shortening based on differentially abundant bacterial taxa.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus are provided for determining zygosity of a multiple-fetus pregnancy using a biological sample taken from the mother. The fetal and maternal DNA in the sample (e.g. plasma) can be analyzed for a particular chromosomal region to identify genetic differences in the fetuses. For example, a normalized parameter for the measure of a primary or secondary allele can show variances for different chromosomal regions when fetuses are dizygotic. Such a variance can be determined relative to an expected value if the fetuses were genetically identical. Statistical methods are provided for analyzing the variation of the normalized parameters to determine fetal DNA concentration and the maternal-fetal mixed genotype at various loci. Parental genotype and haplotype information can also be used to identify inheritance of different parental haplotypes to indicate genetic differences among the fetuses.