What is Chimera – Genetics?
In genetics, a chimera is an organism or tissue that contains at least two different sets of DNA from the fusion of different zygotes (fertilized eggs). The term comes from the Greek mythological figure chimera, a fire-breathing hybrid creature made up of parts from more than one animal. This can occur naturally or be induced artificially through techniques such as cell transplantation or genetic engineering.
Chimeras can exhibit a range of phenotypic characteristics, reflecting the contributions of the different cell populations within their bodies. These differences can manifest in various tissues, organs, or even whole body structures, leading to mosaicism. Chimeras are valuable research tools in genetics and developmental biology and also have applications in fields such as regenerative medicine and organ transplantation.
Also Read: Fertilizations And Implantation
Chimera – Genetics
Chimera genetics refers to an organism containing cells with different genetic compositions. In genetics, human chimeras are individuals with cells from two or more genetically distinct sources. Identification of chimerism in humans involves genetic testing of multiple tissues or cells to detect variations in DNA profiles.
Chimerism can occur naturally through processes like twinning or fusion of embryos, and artificially through procedures like organ transplantation or gene therapy. Chimerism has applications in various fields like forensics, transplantation, and reproductive medicine. In this article, we will study the meaning of chimera, its formation, chimera in humans and its identification in detail.
Table of Content
- What is Chimera – Genetics?
- What Causes Chimerism?
- Symbiotic Chimerism in Anglerfish
- Animal Chimera
- Human Chimera
- Germline Chimera in Genetic Engineering
- Chimera Diagnosis
- Advantages of Chimera
- Disadvantages of Chimerism