somatic mutations

Page last modified on: June 9, 2008
(soh-mat-ik myu-tay-shuns)

Changes to the DNA that occur after conception. Somatic mutations can occur in any of the cells of the body except the germ cells (sperm and egg) and therefore are not passed on to the next generation. These changes can (but not always) cause cancer or other diseases.

Audio contributed by: Marisa Weiss, M.D.

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