Fetal-Maternal Cell-Free DNA and RNA in Plasma: Biochemical Insights into Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

Abstract

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) has revolutionized prenatal care by enabling early detection of fetal genetic conditions through analysis of cell-free nucleic acids in maternal plasma. This review explores the biochemical properties, origins, and clinical significance of fetal-maternal cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and RNA (cfRNA), emphasizing their pivotal roles in the success and advancement of NIPT. We discuss the molecular characteristics, release and clearance mechanisms, and analytical approaches for detecting cfDNA and cfRNA, including quantitative PCR and next-generation sequencing. Furthermore, the review highlights current clinical applications, such as aneuploidy screening, fetal sex determination, and emerging roles in detecting monogenic disorders and maternal-fetal complications. Limitations of current technologies and potential confounders are also addressed. Finally, we explore future directions, including multi-omic integration and cfRNA-based biomarkers for real-time fetal health monitoring. Together, these insights reinforce the growing utility of cell-free nucleic acids as powerful tools for non-invasive, personalized prenatal diagnostics.