germ cell
Definition
- Noun:
- A reproductive cell: A germ cell is a specialized cell that carries half the genetic material needed to form a new organism. It is responsible for transmitting DNA to the next generation through sexual reproduction.
- A gamete: In biological terms, a germ cell is a spermatozoon (sperm cell) in males or an ovum (egg cell) in females.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The fusion of a male and a female germ cell is called fertilization.
- Mutations in germ cells can be passed on to offspring.
- Scientists study germ cell development to understand heredity.
Advanced Usage
- "Primordial germ cell": An early cell type in an embryo that will eventually give rise to mature germ cells (sperm or eggs).
- The primordial germ cells migrate to the developing gonads.
Variants and Related Words
- Gamete (n): A mature haploid germ cell (sperm or ovum) ready for fusion.
- The gametes unite to form a zygote.
- Germline (n): The sequence of germ cells that contain genetic material passed to offspring.
- Germline mutations are inherited.
Synonyms
- Reproductive cell
- Sex cell
- Gamete
Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs)
- Somatic cell: Any cell of a living organism other than a germ cell.
- Unlike germ cells, somatic cells are not involved in reproduction.
- Zygote: The cell formed by the union of two germ cells.
- The zygote divides to form an embryo.
Noun
-
a spermatozoon or an ovum; a cell responsible for transmitting DNA to the next generation
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