Читать книгу Fundamentals of Cancer Detection, Treatment, and Prevention - Surya K. De - Страница 27

Not as common as acquired mutations, germline mutations take place in reproductive cells, such as those in a female's egg or a male's sperm. Offspring resulting from the union of reproductive cells with germline mutation receive that mutation, which is copied into every cell in the body as it develops. Since these mutations are in the reproductive cells, they are carried from generation to generation and are known as inherited cancers. Germline cancers comprise between 5 and 20% of all cancers.

Germline cancers should not be confused, however, with germ cell tumors, which start in the cells that give rise to sperm or eggs. These tumors can develop almost anywhere in the body, and they can be either benign or malignant.