What are the differences between germline and somatic mutations?

Basis of differentiation 

Germline mutations 

Somatic mutations 

Definition 

Are alterations in the genetic sequence of genes of the germinal cells

Are alterations in the genetic sequence of genes of the somatic cells

Potential to be inheritable

Are inheritable

Are not inheritable

Also known as

Hereditary mutations -they are passed on to offspring

Acquired mutations - they are acquired during an individual’s life independent of parents

Place of occurrence 

Occur in germ cells (reproductive cells)

Occur in somatic or body cells

Time of occurrence

Occur only during gametogenesis 

Can occur at any stage of the life cycle

Cells affected

All cells of the organism are affected

Only mutated cells and their progeny are affected 

Silent/observable effects

Effects are silent and not detectable in most cases

Effects are observable in most cases

Mosaicism 

Mosaicism is not common 

Mosaicism is common  

Types of disorders 

Are responsible for causing genetic disorders and germline cancers

Do not cause genetic disorders but may be responsible for causing cancer

Treatable 

Cannot be treated or cured

Can be treated and cured

Role in evolution 

Are the basis of evolution

Play no role in evolution

Genetic importance

Are genetically important as they keep getting passed on to future generations and may result in different sub-species

Are not important genetically as they end with the death of the individual