Somatic cell

Definition

A somatic cell is any cell in an organism that is not involved in sexual reproduction. Somatic cells make up most of the body's tissues and organs and contain a full set of chromosomes (diploid).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Somatic cells are diploid, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.
2. They undergo mitosis for growth and repair, not meiosis.
3. Examples of somatic cells include skin cells, muscle cells, and nerve cells.
4. Mutations in somatic cells can lead to cancers but are not passed on to offspring.
5. Unlike gametes, somatic cells do not participate directly in sexual reproduction.

Review Questions

• What type of cell division do somatic cells undergo?
• How many sets of chromosomes do somatic cells contain?
• Can mutations in somatic cells be inherited by offspring?

Related terms

Gamete: A reproductive cell (sperm or egg) that contains a single set of chromosomes (haploid).

Mitosis: The process by which a somatic cell divides to produce two genetically identical daughter cells.

Diploid: A state of having two complete sets of chromosomes, one from each parent, typical of somatic cells.