Double fertilization in vitro and the origin of human chimerism.
A human embryo consisting of two cells, each containing two pronuclei, was found in the IVF laboratory. The most likely explanation for this phenomenon is a parthenogenetic activation of an oocyte leading to immediate cleavage and followed by double fertilization. Human chimerism may originate in this way.
Van de Leur
S J
SJ
Department of Endocrinology, Growth, and Reproduction, Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Zeilmaker
G H
GH
D000328:Adult; D002460:Cell Line; D002678:Chimera / Q000235:genetics*; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D006801:Humans; D008540:Meiosis; D010063:Ovum / Q000166:cytology