Inventors:
Roberto Romero - Detroit MI, US
Irina Buhimschi - New Haven CT, US
Robert Christner - Albuquerque NM, US
Assignee:
The Govt. of the USA as represented by the Secretary of the Dept. of Health & Human Services
International Classification:
G01N033/53, G01N033/537, G01N033/543
Abstract:
Biomarkers capable of identifying subjects at risk for preterm complications, such as preterm parturition are disclosed, as well as methods and kits for detecting such biomarkers to identify at risk subjects. A single biomarker or combination of biomarkers comprising a defensin, BPI, calprotectin, or a calgranulin are used to qualify the risk of preterm complications in a subject. In particular, the concentrations of the biomarkers correlate with the magnitude of preterm complications and can diagnose or prognose specific preterm complications, such as preterm parturition, preterm premature rupture of the membranes (PROM), intra-amniotic inflammation, and/or microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity (MIAC).