what is chimera

A chimera is an organism composed of cells with more than one distinct genotype, meaning that it has two or more sets of DNA). In animals and humans, chimeras can be formed from the merging of two nonidentical twins, which can include possessing blood cells of different types). In humans, chimerism can occur when a woman is pregnant with twins, and one embryo dies, and the other embryo absorbs the twins cells. Chimerism can also occur after a life-saving medical treatment, such as an organ transplant, where the transplanted organ retains the donors cells and their DNA. Chimeras can appear entirely normal, so it is usually discovered only by accident, but sometimes there are visible signs, such as differently colored eyes or patches of skin of different shades. Chimerism can have ramifications for individuals and their families, including losing parental rights or financial support.