Molecular genetic prenatal determination of twin zygosity

A method of human identity determination using synthetic oligonucleotide probes was applied to prenatal determinations of twin zygosity. Deoxyribonucleic acid "fingerprints" were obtained from chorionic villi or amniocytes. In all cases, the technique predicted twin zygosity with very small tissue samples. The accuracy and simplicity of the method far exceed those of any other currently used technique. This technique should be applicable in those situations in which prenatal determination of relationship is needed.