Why are monozygotic twins different?

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2011

Authors

Silva, S (Author) Other; Martins, Y (Author) Other; matias, a (Author) FMUP; Blickstein, I (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Journal of Perinatal Medicine

Vol. 39

Pages: 195-202

ISSN: 0300-5577

Publisher: Walter De Gruyter

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 38 Citations

Scopus - 51 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-002-TNH

DOI: 10.1515/jpm.2010.140

Abstract (EN): Although popularly designated as "identical'', monozygotic (MZ) twins are rarely identical. Much has been speculated on the origin of MZ twins and several theories have been proposed. Post-fertilization events, such as chromosomal mosaicism, skewed X-inactivation and imprinting mechanisms, as well as other epigenetic mechanisms are responsible for the differences between MZ twins. Numerous discordant MZ twins have been reported including discordance for lateral asymmetry, major malformation, growth and intrauterine death of the co-twin. This discrepancy may have long-term implications on complex diseases and their predisposition, organ transplantation and interpretation of twin-based studies. We reviewed the genotypic and phenotypic differences between MZ twins and discuss their main causes.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 8