GermlineGenen
GermlineGenen are a term used to describe genes whose expression and function are specialized for germline cells—sperm and eggs—and whose genetic information can be inherited by offspring. In contrast, somatic genes act in non-reproductive tissues and their variants are generally not transmitted to the next generation. GermlineGenen include those involved in gametogenesis, meiotic chromosome maintenance, and the early stages of embryonic development, as well as genes that control epigenetic reprogramming in the germ line.
Expression of GermlineGenen is typically enriched in gonadal tissue and during stages of germ cell differentiation,
In research and medicine, germline genetics raises important ethical and regulatory issues. Germline gene editing aims
Terminology notes: GermlineGenen is used as a descriptive umbrella in discussions of heredity and reproduction, rather