The diploid cells in this case include nerve cell, bone cell and muscle cell. A diploid cell is a cell that contains two sets of chromosomes, which is double the haploid chromosome number. They include all the somatic cells with exception of germ line cells. Gametes are haploid cells meaning they only have one set of chromosomes. During sexual reproduction, gametes (sperm and egg cells) fuse at fertilization to form a diploid zygote which develops into a diploid organism.
Answer:
The correct answer is: B. If he inherited a mutation which made him more susceptible to lung cancer, it may have been present in some of the gametes he produced and passed to his children.
Explanation:
- The inheritance of genes from the parents to the offspring is mediated by the germinal cells or sex cells or gametes of the parents.
- The genetic material present in the somatic cells of the parents are not transmitted to the offspring.
- In the given case, the man who develops lung cancer generates some tobacco smoke induced mutations in some of the cells of his lungs.
- The cells of the lungs are type up of somatic cells. Hence, any mutations in the genome of these cells will never be transmitted to the offspring.
- Therefore, the children of the man will never become prone to develop lung cancer due to development of mutations in the lung cells of the man.
- However, if the man has inherited any mutation from his parents which can increase the risk of development of lung cancer, then these mutations will be present in his germinal cells and also in some of his gametes.
- Now, if a child is born due to the fusion of the the maternal gamete with one of these mutated paternal gametes, there is an increased chance of developing lung cancer in the child, irrespective of the fact whether he is a smoker or a non-smoker.
