Based on the passage, what can be inferred regarding the difference between somatic mutations and germline mutations?

In multicellular organisms, gen

Question

Based on the passage, what can be inferred regarding the difference between somatic mutations and germline mutations?

In multicellular organisms, genomic alterations can occur in either somatic lineages or the germline. Somatic mutations arise in non-reproductive cells—such as epidermal fibroblasts or hepatocytes—and may induce localized oncogenesis, but they terminate with the individual organism. In contrast, germline mutations occur in gametes; although they often produce no observable phenotypic distress in the progenitor, they propagate to every cell of subsequent generations.

Accepted Answer

An individual carrying a deleterious somatic mutation in skin cells cannot transmit that mutation to their biological offspring.

Answer

Somatic mutations are invariably lethal to developing embryos during early gestation.

Answer

Germline mutations are solely caused by environmental exposure to chemical carcinogens.

Answer

Hepatocytes are immune to mutational insults caused by ultraviolet radiation.

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