Molecular Study of Preterm Birth: Genomic Ancestry, Race, and Ethnicity

BACKGROUND: Inova Translational Medicine Institute (ITMI) initiated a study to identify genomic markers predictive of preterm birth (PTB). Molecular Study of Preterm Birth evaluated ancestral reference genomes, self-reported country of birth, race and ethnicity, as well as data from the electronic medical records (EMR). Family and racial predispositions to PTB suggest genomic characterizations may confer increased risk. OBJECTIVE: To investigate genomic ancestry utilizing the electronic medical record, self-reported race/ethnicity, and principle component analysis to determine the molecular characterization of genomics and preterm birth