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Germline mutation

Synonym(s)

  • hereditary mutation

Definition(s)

The presence of an altered gene within the egg and sperm (germ cell) such that the altered gene can be passed to subsequent generations

Definition from: GeneReviewsThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. from the University of Washington and the National Center for Biotechnology Information

A gene change in the body's reproductive cells (egg or sperm) that becomes incorporated in the DNA of every cell in the body

Definition from: Office of Rare DiseasesThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Institutes of Health

Related discussion in the Handbook

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: May 20, 2013