Opportunities and Challenges Offered by Cell-Free Fetal DNA Testing and Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing

Abstract

Non-invasive prenatal testing has the potential to bring changes to the clinical laboratory industry. The ability to isolate cell-free fetal DNA and perform molecular-based testing presents challenges. Clinical laboratories will need to research these tests to avoid being left behind, to understand the technologies and train their laboratorians. They also need to prepare themselves for the socialpolitical, regulatory, financial and technical considerations associated with the incorporation of these technologies into the clinical laboratory setting.