How does a mutation in a somatic cell gene affect a person\'s ability to transmi

Question

How does a mutation in a somatic cell gene affect a person's ability to transmit an increased risk for cancer (predisposition) to his or her children?


a.) The predisposition can only be passed on if the person with the somatic cell mutation is female.

b.) The predisposition can only be passed on if the person with the somatic cell mutation is male.


c.) There is no risk of transmitting a predisposition from a somatic cell mutation.


d.) The risk for predisposition is dependent on which tissue type experienced the somatic mutation.

Explanation / Answer

A long-term somatic effect is the damage to cells that are continually reproducing. These cells are the most sensitive to radiation because any changes made in the parent cell's chromosome structure will be transmitted to its daughters. Also, radiation can affect the delicate chemistry of the cell causing changes in the rate of cell division or even the destruction of that cell.

c.) There is no risk of transmitting a predisposition from a somatic cell mutation.

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