Germ Cell (Noun)
Meaning
A spermatozoon or an ovum; a cell responsible for transmitting DNA to the next generation.
Classification
Nouns denoting body parts.
Examples
- The germ cell is the cell that gives rise to the gametes, or reproductive cells, of an organism.
- In humans, the germ cells are the spermatozoa and ova, which are produced in the testes and ovaries, respectively.
- Germ cells are unique in that they are the only cells in the body that are capable of transmitting genetic information to the next generation.
- The development of a germ cell into a mature gamete involves a series of complex cellular processes, including meiosis and differentiation.
- In many organisms, the germ cells are set aside early in development and are protected from the influences of the surrounding somatic cells.