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Abstract

Methods for enriching specific microparticles, such as fetal microparticles or disease specific microparticles, in a biological sample are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the methods include combining a biological sample with a molecule that binds specific microparticles, and separating fractions of the biological sample, wherein the fraction that contains the binding molecule is enriched for the specific microparticles. Also disclosed are methods for enriching fetal nucleic acids by enriching fetal microparticles in a fraction of the biological sample and isolating nucleic acids from the enriched fraction. Methods for facilitating prenatal diagnosis of fetal chromosomal abnormalities are disclosed. In certain embodiments, the methods include combining a biological sample with a molecule that binds fetal microparticles, separating fractions of the biological sample, isolating nucleic acids from the fraction enriched for fetal microparticles, and analyzing the nucleic acids for the presence of a mutation.

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First Claim