Question about evolution and genetics?

Question

I understand how mutation happens, what I don't understand is how it's propagated to the next generation. Let's say I have a gamma particle that hits a base pair in one of the genes in a skin cell. The cell mechanics repair the gene with a mistake (a mutation). How does that cell mutation get passed to my offspring? Wouldn't the mutation have to happen in the fertilized egg, before it splits, for it to be passed to my offspring?

Answer 1

The mutations that pass on to the next generation - development of new traits, etc - are not the result of gamma radiation changing the genetic structure in a random cell.

The most common mutations that create diversity by passing on new traits to the next generation are point mutations in the genetic code that occur when sex cells are being generated in the parent (during meiosis).

When sex cells are being created they are also subject to a process called recombination - the mixing up of the order of quite large base pair sequences on the chromosomes - which also leads to changes in the chromosome sequence.

All these changes are passed on to the next generation - although the nature of the sequence of base pairs, genes and gene complexes is very complicated, so often the mutation will not have such an obvious effect.

Hopefully this helps - all genetic mutations that are passed on to the next generation must occur during the production of sex cells.

Answer 2

Yes...mutations in sex cells only get passed along to offspring. Different for males and females, males are producing sperm their whole lives whereas females are born with all the eggs they will ever have. Radiation to those areas will produce mutations in the sex cells. Skin cancer, for example, it not necessarily passed on unless the cancer cells somehow get to the sex cells and force a mutation. A simple google search or a 7th grade life science book will give a basic answer in easy terminology.

Answer 3

As tricky said, mutations to the somatic cell structure during the lifetime of an organism aren't passed on to the offspring. It is damage to the gonad tissues responsible for providing the genetic material to create gametes that is most susceptible to mutagenic effects.

That's why you need to cover up the boys when you get an x-ray.