Monozygotic twins
Monozygotic Twins
Monozygotic twins (pronunciation: /ˌmɒnəʊzaɪˈɡɒtɪk/), also known as identical twins, are a type of twins that develop from one zygote, which splits and forms two embryos. The term is derived from the Greek words 'monos' (meaning 'single') and 'zygotos' (meaning 'yoked together').
Etymology
The term "monozygotic" comes from the Greek words 'monos' (meaning 'single') and 'zygotos' (meaning 'yoked together'). This refers to the process by which a single fertilized egg splits into two, leading to the development of two embryos that share the same genetic material.
Definition
Monozygotic twins are defined as two offspring produced by the same pregnancy, originating from a single fertilized egg, or zygote. This zygote splits into two separate embryos early in development, resulting in two individuals that share identical genetic material.
Characteristics
Monozygotic twins share identical genetic material, as they are formed from the same fertilized egg. This results in twins that are the same sex and have very similar physical characteristics. However, they may not be completely identical due to differences in environmental factors and epigenetic changes that occur during development.
Related Terms
- Dizygotic twins: Also known as fraternal twins, these are twins that develop from two different eggs fertilized by two different sperm. They share about 50% of their genetic material, similar to regular siblings.
- Conjoined twins: A rare type of monozygotic twins where the embryos do not fully separate and the twins are physically connected.
- Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome: A condition that can occur in pregnancies when one twin transfuses blood to the other while in the womb.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Monozygotic twins
- Wikipedia's article - Monozygotic twins
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