Symbiotic Chimerism in Anglerfish
Symbiotic chimerism in anglerfish refers to a unique mating strategy where a small male fuses permanently with a larger female. The male anglerfish fuses with the female, becoming a parasitic appendage known as a “sexual parasite.” The male loses its digestive organs, eyes, and other structures, as well as its DNA, depeninng entirely on the female for nutrition and reproductive functions.
Despite the loss of its individual identity, the male continues to provide sperm to fertilize the female’s eggs, ensuring the continuation of the species. Symbiotic chimerism allows the male to benefit from the female’s resources and protection, while the female gains a continuous source of sperm for reproduction.
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