Chimeres

Chimeras are organisms composed of cells with different genetic origins, meaning they have multiple sets of DNA within their bodies. This can happen naturally, such as when an individual develops from the fusion of two fertilized eggs, resulting in a person with different cell lines. Researchers also create chimeras in labs by combining cells or tissues from different sources, which helps study development, genetics, and disease mechanisms. In essence, a chimera is a single organism made up of a mixture of genetically distinct cells, leading to complex biological characteristics.