Targeted Expanded Genomic NIPT: a curated cfDNA test for serious, actionable conditions - the best screening option for increased NT.
Fast lab processing means most parents receive their results within a few working days.
Includes the KNOVA NIPT test, secure sample collection, analysis, and a consultation with a Jeen genetic counsellor.
Conditions like Trisomy 21, 18, and 13 can occur even without family history. Screening helps identify risk early in pregnancy.
*This number is based on UK prevalence data for conditions screened by Fulgent's KNOVA NIPT.
Here’s how KNOVA perfectly slots into the SMART NT pathway.
KNOVA offers the broadest panel of any NIPT, screening for both chromosomal and monogenic conditions. It’s supported by Fulgent’s industry-leading sequencing platform, capable of analysing over 18,000 human genes.
KNOVA uses a novel genomic approach for cfDNA analysis, which differs from all previously developed NIPTs. It is a third-generation NIPT technology called coordinative allele-aware target-enrichment sequencing (COATE-seq). This method combines aspects of previous cfDNA approaches and incorporates multidimensional analysis.
Unlike “genome-wide (GW) NIPTs”, which perform shallow analysis across all chromosomes, KNOVA uses deep next-generation sequencing targeted to about 2,000 critical loci of the human genome. This approach improves accuracy and lowers the chance of inconclusive results.
As a result, KNOVA is technologically much more advanced compared with previous NIPT brands; however, the test is less validated because it is very new (launched in 2024) and its clinical application is still limited.
While KNOVA is the most complete prenatal screening available, it isn’t suitable for every pregnancy. KNOVA cannot be used in the following situations:
KNOVA is also a screening test, not a diagnostic one. If any result shows a high risk, you may still need further testing (like CVS or amniocentesis) to confirm the result.
KNOVA Prenatal Screening (NIPT/NIPS) Full Panel (data from Fulgent Genetics):
Aneuploidies: 45X, 47XXX, 47XXY, 47XYY, Trisomy 13, Trisomy 15, Trisomy 16, Trisomy 18, Trisomy 21, and Trisomy 22
Microdeletions: 11q23q25 del, 15q11.2-q13 del, 17p11.2 del, 18p del, 18q22q23 del, 1p36 del, 22q11.2 del, 2q33 del, 4p16 del, 5p15 del, 8q23q24 del, and 9p del
Monogenic: ASXL1, BRAF, CBL, CD96, CDKL5, CHD7, COL10A1, COL11A1, COL1A1, COL1A2, COL2A1, EBP, EFNB1, ERF, FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, FLNB, FREM1, GLI3, HDAC8, HNRNPK, HRAS, KAT6B, KMT2D, KRAS, LMNA, MAP2K1, MAP2K2, MECP2, NIPBL, NRAS, NSD1, NSDHL, PTPN11, RAD21, RAF1, RIT1, RUNX2, SHOC2, SKI, SLC25A24, SMC1A, SMC3, SNRPB, SOS1, SOS2, SOX9, SPECC1L, STAT3, TCF12, TRAF7, TSC1, TSC2, TWIST1, and ZIC1
KNOVA is a distinct, third-generation cfDNA platform, so there’s no true like-for-like substitute.
If unavailable, the closest options are PrenatalSafe Complete Plus (Eurofins Genoma, Italy) or a combined pathway of Panorama + Vistara (Natera, US). Both rely on more traditional technologies and, in our experience, offer narrower conditions coverage, less curated panels with higher chance of false positive/inconclusive results, longer turnaround, and (paradoxically!) often higher cost due to a less efficient workflow. (Any high-chance result still requires confirmation by CVS/amniocentesis.)
Yes, definitely. A normal NT does not rule out genetic conditions, and KNOVA still adds value:
KNOVA is a complex genomic test, and parents benefit from clear guidance. A specialist clinic should provide pre-test counselling to explain what KNOVA can and cannot reveal, an expert 10 Week Scan to confirm suitability (and to identify situations where NIPT is not helpful), and specialist genetics input to interpret any high-chance result.
If a result is high-chance, the pathway should include a detailed 12–13-week scan (with early fetal echocardiography) to refine the prenatal phenotype, followed by referral to targeted diagnostic testing CVS or amniocentesis - directed to the specific finding.
Any fetal medicine clinic offering KNOVA should work closely with Fulgent Genetics to ensure smooth logistics, accredited processing, clear reporting, and rapid support for redraws or complex results.
Disclaimer! The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.
Basic and advanced Knova options compared to help you choose the right test for your pregnancy.
Basic NIPT screens for the three most common chromosomal conditions: Down’s syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards’ syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau’s syndrome (Trisomy 13). Advanced NIPT includes everything in the basic test, but can also check for sex chromosome conditions, some rare genetic deletions (called microdeletions), and can tell you the biological sex of the baby if you choose to know. At Jeen, our genetic counsellors will help you decide which version is right for you during your consultation.
We ask you to send us your scan so our medical team can confirm that you’re at least 10 weeks pregnant and that the pregnancy appears to be developing normally. This helps us ensure the test is appropriate and that the results will be accurate. It’s also important to understand that NIPT only screens for specific genetic conditions. It does not detect structural anomalies, such as heart defects or issues with organ development, which are physical rather than genetic. These types of conditions are usually picked up later in pregnancy through detailed ultrasound scans. Sending your early scan allows our doctors to check for any concerns before moving forward with the NIPT.
No - genetic testing shows your risk, not a guarantee. Some people with a genetic variant never develop the condition, while others without a variant might still be affected due to lifestyle or environmental factors.
Yes, NIPT can usually identify the baby’s biological sex with high accuracy, but this is completely optional. If you’d like to know, just let your genetic counsellor know during your consultation — and if you’d rather not find out, we’ll make sure it’s not included in your report.
At the moment, NIPT is only offered through the NHS in certain cases — for example, if you’ve had a high-risk result from a standard screening test. At Jeen, we offer private NIPT testing with flexible options, fast results, and full clinical support, including at-home appointments and expert guidance.
Your results will usually be ready within 2–10 working days from the time your sample arrives at our partner lab. The exact turnaround time depends on which NIPT you’ve chosen and the location of the laboratory. We’ll keep you informed throughout the process and arrange a follow-up consultation to talk you through your results as soon as they’re ready.
Please note that delays can occur during public holidays in both the UK and the US. If your results indicate that follow-up testing is needed for your partner, we’ll act quickly to keep everything moving smoothly. Our priority is to get you the answers you need without unnecessary delays — so you can make confident, informed decisions for your pregnancy.
You can take the NIPT from 10 weeks into your pregnancy. Before booking your test with Jeen, we ask you to send us a recent pregnancy scan, such as a dating or viability scan, so our team of specialists can confirm you’re eligible to proceed.
Yes, NIPT is completely safe for both you and your baby. It’s a non-invasive blood test that only requires a small sample from your arm, and there is no physical contact with the baby. This means there is no risk of miscarriage or harm to the pregnancy, unlike some invasive procedures.
NIPT is over 99% accurate at detecting Down’s syndrome and also highly reliable for Edwards’ and Patau’s syndromes. It is more accurate than standard NHS screening and produces fewer false positive results, which means fewer people are sent for unnecessary follow-up testing.
Yes, at Jeen we believe it’s important that everyone taking NIPT has a chance to speak to a qualified genetic counsellor first. This session helps you understand what the test covers, what it doesn’t, and what the results might mean for you and your baby. It’s a space to ask any questions and make confident, informed choices.
If your result shows a high risk for a condition, we’ll arrange a follow-up session with one of our genetic counsellors to explain exactly what it means. You’ll be given the option to have a diagnostic test, such as amniocentesis or CVS, which can confirm the result. We’ll support you at every step, with clear information and no pressure.
No, NIPT screens for a specific set of genetic conditions, mostly involving extra or missing chromosomes. It won’t detect all birth defects or structural anomalies, such as heart defects or limb differences. That’s why it’s important to still attend all your routine scans and check-ups during pregnancy.
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