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Zygosity and placental structure in monochorionic twins
1University Department of Pathology, Royal Infirmary and Royal Maternity Hospital, Glasgow, UK.
Acta Geneticae Medicae Et Gemellologiae
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Monochorionic twins are not always identical. This study found blood group differences in some monochorionic twins, challenging the assumption that they are always monozygotic.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Genetics
- Immunology
Background:
- Monochorionic twins share a placenta, leading to the common assumption of monozygosity (identical twins).
- Previous research has raised questions about the universal equivalence of monochorionicity and monozygosity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the assumption that monochorionic twins are invariably monozygotic.
- To assess the genetic relatedness of monochorionic twins using red cell antigen analysis.
Main Methods:
- Cord blood samples were collected from 12 sets of monochorionic twins.
- Samples were analyzed for 16 different red cell antigens to detect potential blood group discrepancies.
Main Results:
- Discrepancies in minor blood group antigens were observed in 3 out of the 12 twin sets studied.
- These findings indicate genetic differences within some monochorionic twin pairs.
Conclusions:
- The study provides evidence against the blanket assumption that all monochorionic twins are monozygotic.
- Results support the need for further investigation into the zygosity of monochorionic twins, as monochorionicity does not guarantee monozygosity.