Compositions and methods for detecting and treating neural tube defects

The present invention generally compositions for the detection and treatment of neural tube defects in the fetus, relates reagents and methods. One aspect of the present invention, a composition containing a noggin or LDN-193189 provides a method comprising administering to the fetus in utero. In certain embodiments, the composition is administered if when the amount of BMP4 contained in maternal blood or amniotic fluid is increased, and / or the amount of noggin is reduced. In another aspect of the present invention, the method comprises administering a composition comprising a GDC-0449 to the fetus in utero. In certain embodiments, the amount of sonic hedgehog that is included in the maternal blood or amniotic fluid is administered GDC-0449 when increased. .FIELD 6