Question

Considering the developmental origins of the germ line cells in plants and animals, what are the relative odds (plants vs. animals) of a somatic mutation in a parent being heritable? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

Somatic mutations are those which take place in autosomes of the cells, hence are not passed down to daughter cells. This general rule holds true for both plant and animal cells. However, the generation of gametes in organisms, including plants and animals, takes place by meiotic division of diploid cells. Thus, any mutation. even in autosomes, in these diploid precursor cells will be reflected in the daughter cells as well.

Thus, technically this mutation will be in autosomes similar to somatic cells, but will lead to a heritable change in the daughter cells. Rest, all other somatic mutations in any cell of the body are not inherited in the daughter cells.