Twins and their families are at the heart of all that we do. We are dedicated to twin research and supporting twins to live happy and healthy lives - from newborns to twins of all ages, identical and non-identical. Please let us know how we can help you:
- I'm interested in joining
- I'd like to register now
- I'm already a member; how do I get involved?
- I wish to update my contact details
- Our most frequently asked questions
Why join us? Article Count: 3
It doesn't matter how old you are, or if you are identical or non-identical, same-sex or opposite sex twins, well or ill - all are welcome to join us. Twins can be registered as soon as they are born (and up to the age of 18 - after which they can register themselves) by their parents.
Why are twins so important to research? By studying the differences and similarities between both identical and non-identical twins, researchers are able to to tease apart the effects of nature (genetics) and nurture (environment) on our health and wellbeing.
Our studies look at medical conditions that can affect anyone, such as cancer and diabetes, as well as issues of specific concern to multiple-birth families such as premature birth and twin social and educational development.
By joining us, you become part of something bigger - an amazing Australia-wide community of over 75,000 twins and their families joining forces to make a difference. Membership is free and designed to help twins to thrive, connect and belong.
Get involved Article Count: 1
As a member of Twins Research Australia, there are many ways for you to get involved: from joining a study, attending a forum or media event, to helping with fundraising. Even if you only have a few minutes to spare, you can make a valued contribution.
Join a current study Article Count: 6
Are you a twin or triplet? A very precious gift that only you can give is the donation of your time to a twin study. By participating in twin studies, you'll be helping researchers to better understand what contributes to our health and happiness.
Below are our latest studies seeking twins and triplets. You'll find there are many ways to get involved - and often it is as simple as completing a questionnaire but this can be invaluable to research.
If you are interested in any, please click on the individual study link. We'll get back to you with further details. If you'd like to be alerted when a new study begins, please contact us. TRA and our researchers appreciate your time and interest.
Want to do more? Article Count: 6
Our researchers, with the help of twins, are working tirelessly to fast-track discoveries in medical fields with global impact such as obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease and mental health.
There are many ways to support the unique work of our researchers - whether you are an individual, twin, parent, community or work group, or business. By joining forces, we can make a world of difference.
Member stories Article Count: 1
Would you like to share a story about a unique aspect of your twin life? We’d love to hear stories of funny, fascinating or different experiences of being a twin.
These experiences might be personal, professional or linked to your involvement in a twin study. We are always looking for interesting stories to feature in our eNews or social media, or share with the media.
You never know where it might lead – it might make a difference to someone’s life, build awareness, support change, or simply entertain.
You can This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.your story to us – 200-300 words would be ideal – and we’ll get back to you to confirm the details. We look forward to hearing from you.
Frequently asked questions Article Count: 0
We are pleased to answer your most frequently asked questions. If you have other questions not covered in our list please contact us and we'll be happy to assist. We also recommend following us on Facebook or Twitter and subscribing to our eNews as it is a great way to keep up to date with the latest in all twin related news.
About Twins Article Count: 6
Monozygotic (MZ) or identical twins
Identical twins occur when one fertilised embryo splits to form two individuals.
Identical twins are genetically the same; however, this does not mean that everything about them will be exactly the same. For example, while the fingerprints of identical twins are more alike than the prints of two completely unrelated people, they are not identical.
Identical twins are always the same sex; they usually are the same height, weight and have similar hair color. In relation to the genetic differences in MZ twins, different genes can be turned on or off which is why one identical twin may have a condition or disease that the other doesn’t. The differences are due to a number of natural chemical modifications that can influence changes to DNA – called epigenetics. Researchers have found that epigenetic changes in twins' genomes (their entire hereditary information) increase as the twins' age and become greater the longer they live apart. Common differences relate to features such as birthmarks, moles, hair patterns and teeth development. Aside from physical differences, there can be even greater differences in their personalities.
Dizygotic (DZ) or non-identical twins
Non-identical twins occur when two separate eggs are released by the mother at the same time and are fertilised by two different sperm. These two fertilised eggs then implant independently in the uterus. DZ twins are genetically similar – just like normal brothers/sisters/siblings in that they share approximately 50% of their genetic material. DZ twins are still very special because they share the same womb and have very similar environments as they grow throughout life.
Twins Research Australia
Address: 3/207 Bouverie St
Carlton, Vic 3010
Email: info@twins.org.au
ABN: 84 002 705 224
Twins Research Australia has received continuous funding from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) since 1981, most recently through a Centre of Research Excellence Grant (2015-2022). TRA is administered by the University of Melbourne.
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