What is a germ cell mutation?
A germline mutation, or germinal mutation, is any detectable variation within germ cells (cells that, when fully developed, become sperm and ovum). Mutations in these cells are the only mutations that can be passed on to offspring, when either a mutated sperm or oocyte come together to form a zygote.
What is affected in a germ cell mutation?
Somatic mutations differ from germ line mutations, which are inherited genetic alterations that occur in the germ cells (i.e., sperm and eggs). Somatic mutations are frequently caused by environmental factors, such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation or to certain chemicals.
