Genome-wide nucleosome footprints of plasma cfDNA predict preterm birth: A case-control study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Preterm birth (PTB) occurs in approximately 11% of all births worldwide, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality for both mothers and their offspring. Identifying pregnancies at risk of preterm birth during early pregnancy may help improve interventions and reduce its incidence. Plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA), derived from placenta and other maternal tissues, serves as a dynamic indicator of biological processes and pathological changes in pregnancy. These properties establish cfDNA as a valuable biomarker for investigating pregnancy complications, including PTB.

Methods and findings

To date, there are few methods available for PTB prediction that have been developed with large sample sizes, high-throughput screening, and validated in independent cohorts. T

SUBMITTER: Guo Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11999135 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature