A germline mutation is any detectable and heritable variation in the lineage of germ cells, any biological cell that gives rise to the gametes of an organism in sexual reproduction. Mutations in these cells are transmitted to offspring, while those in somatic cells are not. A germline mutation gives rise to a constitutional mutation in the offspring which is present in virtually every cell.  Interestingly, … Continue reading Study provides most detailed analysis yet of germline mutations involved in childhood cancers.