A proprietary DNA-based methodology

Harmony Prenatal Test relies on a proprietary targeted DNA-based technology (DANSR™ and FORTE™) to provide exceptionally accurate results.

  • During pregnancy, cell-free DNA—short DNA fragments—of the mother and the fetus circulate in maternal blood
  • Harmony analyzes fragments from specific chromosomes, rather than all chromosomes 1-2
  • SNPs analysis distinguishes maternal from fetal DNA and quantifies the fetal DNA 2-3
  • Targeted analysis results in higher throughput and accurate trisomy probability assessment 3
Fetus Bloodstream

DANSR Targeted Approach for Deeper Analysis vs Random Sequencing

In contrast to tests that randomly sequence all cell-free DNA (cfDNA), the Harmony test focuses on cfDNA from the chromosomes of interest.1 This unique, directed approach allows deeper analysis and ultimately yields more accurate results.1,3-5

Custom Microarray Quantifies DANSR Products with Speed and Accuracy

Microarray technology is a well-established method of quantification also used in prenatal genetic diagnostic applications. Harmony Prenatal Test is a screening test and is able utilize microarray technology due to its proprietary targeted approach.5 Microarray technology further enhances performance, speed, and efficiency.5

Test success is further enhanced with the highly robust microarray quantification from the already high rates: 99% of eligible samples return a result.

Accurate Measurement of Fetal Fraction

  • FORTE accurately distinguishes between high and low risk results even at low fetal fraction 2,3
  • Incorporates maternal risk factors and precise fetal DNA measurements2,3
  • Individual probability scores provided for each patient

FORTE Algorithm Incorporates Accurate Measurement of Fetal DNA, Maternal Age, and Gestational Age

FORTE Advantage

  • Clearly distinguishes high-probability and low-probability results6
  • Outperforms the Z-statistic approach6
  1. Sparks et al. Prenat Diagn. 2012 Jan;32(1):3-9.
  2. Sparks et al. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Apr;206(4):319.e1-9.
  3. Juneau et al. Fetal Diagn Ther. 2014;36(4):282-6.
  4. Rava et al. Clin Chem. 2014 Jan;60(1):243-50.
  5. Jensen et al. PLoS One. 2013;8(3):e57381.
  6. Ashoor G et al., Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2012 Apr;206(4):322.e1-5.