AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The change to a person’s DNA during a somatic mutation happens after fertilization in any cell of their body that isn’t a sperm or egg cell (germ cells). Cells continuously copy and replace themselves in humans. If a mutation occurs, all cells that form from that affected cell will have that mutation in its DNA.

Detailed explanation-2: -An alteration in DNA that occurs 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 children. These alterations can (but do not always) cause cancer or other diseases.

Detailed explanation-3: -In humans, somatic cells are diploid, meaning they contain two sets of chromosomes, one set inherited from each parent. Somatic mutations can impact the individual carrying the mutation, but cannot be passed on and have no effect on the offspring.

Detailed explanation-4: -Somatic mutations can give rise to cancer (9), as well as noncancerous diseases. Noncancerous somatic mutations that occur during development may affect cell proliferation, as would be the case in cancer, or they may simply alter cellular function without causing a proliferative effect.

Detailed explanation-5: -Mutations in somatic cells are called somatic mutations. Because they do not occur in cells that give rise to gametes, the mutation is not passed along to the next generation by sexual means. To maintain this mutation, the individual containing the mutation must be cloned.