The International Fetal Genomics Consortium (IFGC) is a group of academic and industry partners who believe that advancing the study of fetal genomics will improve healthcare during and after pregnancy.
The IFGC is uniquely effective as a genetic information clearinghouse because it is able to centralize all genetic sequencing, analysis, and raw data management in one location. This facilitates the sharing of data as well as intellectual collaboration through research initiatives and publication of findings.
Our research aims to identify novel genes and/or variants affecting genomic regions critical for stillbirth. Using a technique called deep phenotyping, researchers can match genetic information with fetal samples to better understand structural anomalies detected on ultrasound and in fetal autopsy.
The consortia will have the power to sequence, analyze, and interpret genomic variation underlying fetal anomalies and stillbirth. By creating these datasets available as cloud-based genomic data resource with associated phenotype codes, IFGC will assist the research and clinical communities to improve pregnancy outcomes.
Researchers also hope to further the understanding of mechanisms leading to pregnancy loss. Through their close examination of stillbirth samples at a gene sequence level, new insight into the role of cellular transcriptome may provide new answers to unknown causes of stillbirth.
The IFGC aims to develop and evaluate new technologies that will impact the standard of care in maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) and transform prenatal diagnosis. Some of the next-generation genetic technologies IFGC seeks to evaluate include:
Connect your patients to cutting-edge genomic research
In this age of precision medicine, the International Fetal Genomics Consortium offers an affordable way for families to access the latest gene sequencing technology. As their healthcare provider, you can discuss the benefits of fetal genetic testing, especially in cases of stillbirth or fetal anomalies (Healthcare Provider FAQs). Participating in the research study is free for all patients.
Most insurance companies do not currently cover the cost of the type of genetic testing (whole genome or exome sequencing) available to study participants.
The International Fetal Genomics Consortium (IFGC)’s mission is to serve as a dynamic and collaborative research collective composed of the world’s experts in maternal-fetal medicine (MFM), genetics, computational genomics, imaging, and clinical diagnostics. Members are united in their goal to advance care during and after pregnancy through the study of genomics.
The IFGC includes two established consortia in the United States studying the genomics of pregnancy loss. These two consortia include:
The Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) led Boston-area pregnancy loss network (BPLN), which is comprised of:
The Columbia Perinatal Research Consortium (PRC), which is comprised of:
Additional collaborative sites outside of these networks include
For genetic analysis, joint analysis and data harmonization IFGC partners with:
Additional funding and organizational support comes from:
We are available to answer your questions and tell you more about our goals.
