165. The Science of Twins

Between 1980 and 2009, the rate of twinning in the US increased by 76%, and this trend is seen across the world. Twins can be either fraternal where two eggs are fertilized at the same time, or identical where one fertilized egg splits in two. Both of these offer huge opportunities for scientists to learn about genetic traits and environmental impacts on development. Luke explains what we've learned from twin studies and why they're so useful.

Om Podcasten

Have you ever wondered why we laugh or if you can really die of a broken heart? Join Professor Luke O'Neill on ‘Show Me the Science’ as he tackles a different issue each week; from the serious to the silly, all explained through science. This Newstalk production will open the world of science to people of all ages. New episodes every Thursday. Show me the Science is with thanks to B Braun. Listen and subscribe to Show Me the Science with Luke O'Neill on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App.   You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'