Do all identical twins look alike?

When we hear the term “identical twins,” most of us assume that they are exactly the same. The truth, however, is far from it! While some identical twins can be difficult to tell apart, others seem like they couldn’t possibly be related at all. So why is this? How can two people who share the same DNA not look alike? In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of genetics and try to unravel one of nature’s more perplexing mysteries.

What makes someone identical?

First things first – let’s clarify what exactly we mean by “identical” when it comes to twins. Identical (or monozygotic) twins occur when a single fertilized egg splits into two separate embryos sometime in the first few days after conception. This means that both individuals have almost exactly (see what I did there?) the same genetic makeup – nearly 100% similarity between their DNA sequences.

So with such similar DNA profiles, you would think that any differences must come down to external factors in life right?! Wrong!

Nature vs Nurture

In theory, siblings who grow up together should have very similar physical characteristics due to sharing an environment rich in various cultures causing them experiencing much more or less stimulus than their counterparts ie: air pollution , different diets , cultural practices amongst others but once again for Twins nature has its own rules which skips these clichés.

But as for genetics / biological development among Monozygotic Twins- nurture takes a backseat!

Studies conducted on identical twin brothers showed how despite growing up under completely different circumstances since birthing ,we see no change;they still had uncanny similarity even ran towards food items with common fervour & predicted each other’s moves while playing chess . Researchers discovered that theirs were striking parallel developmental paths especially regarding traits such as rate of tooth growth& hair thickness.

So if not nurture, then what causes these differences?!

Random mutations

When a fertilized egg splits in two, the resulting embryos may be genetically identical at that moment. However, as development progresses and cells divide, random mutations can occur naturally which leads to differences.

A research study conducted on monozygotic twins gestating within one sac found out how they still differed physically slightly;although sharing an amniotic sac just like siamese siblings(Two or more individuals of same biological sex connected!).
This is unavoidable: spontaneous genetic changes could happen as early on as during first mitosis(stage where cell divides into 2.identicals here.)which both twin’s share then goes onto forming completely unique genes rather than splitting up already in existence ones.

## Epigenetics matters too!

In addition to unpredictable mutations ,epigenetic factors are also influential with Monozygotic Twins’ physical appearance .

It’s no new fact epigenetic studies found inheritance transgression happening due to external non-DNA influences namely environmental (dietary habits) & lifestyle choices( exercising regularly posing healthier appearances).

Research was carried out regarding how women who were malnourished while pregnant had children whom would show up smaller physiques& complications in conception rate likewise overfed mothers birthed large babies whom grew obese quickly albeit Twin’s having similar genetics but believe me it does matter what you eat!

## Copy number Variations

As much as surprising little twines borned from their zygote junction? there is another phenomenon known by uncommon name – CNV(Copy Number variation)whereby differing results occur depending upon when the cell initiated its division process.

During mitosis “copy errors” might arise although very unlikely come about whereby each embryo appends supplemental DNA information effectively altering their gene pool composition discreetly enough for future implications.

It should go without saying that cnv’s usually have the most impact on physical characteristics such as height
and unique facial features .

## Our brain affects our appearance

Here’s another interesting fact – even our brains can affect how we look! A study shows how since neural interactions stimulated, Dopamine secretion elevates which might prompt fluctuation in the length of fingers in a Monozygotic Twin.

Yes, that’s right: because various areas are specifically
“mapped” to correspond towards other corresponding body parts connections between zones lead into some perceptible differences albeit minute .A perfect example of how intricate both nature & nurture is!

The psychological effect

We’ve heard about an adage saying ,”beauty lies in the eyes of beholder”. This mantra actually holds water once Twins come into picture.

Twinship fosters an insurmountable bond unlike any other :knowing someone akin to yourself down to genetic level poses inevitable complacence regarding recognition process;family members& friends face difficulty telling them apart thus rendering it challenging for anyone outside their circle too. So perhaps features aren’t entirely what baffles us- duplicacy clouds judgement sans anyway!

Now that you understand all these different factors ,you should be able comprehend why identical twins not always appearing exactly alike isn’t so surprising after all.

Identical twins begin as though photocopied duplicates but with each passing division (let us have few praise sentences here)they go different paths thereby resulting in slight if somewhat unobservable dissimilarities at least cosmetically. That being said,it cannot be underestimated just how fascinating this particular subject matter truly is!

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