The Germline and Soma: A Characteristic of Multicellular Organisms or a Feature of all Organisms?

  • Published In: BioEssays, 2025, v. 47, n. 6. P. 1 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Zadrag‐Tecza, Renata 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses a hypothesis regarding the existence of a germline in unicellular organisms, specifically focusing on the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The authors, Bhavya Sree Vadlamudi and Duur K. Aanen, challenge the traditional view that the distinction between germline and soma is insignificant in unicellular organisms, arguing that this distinction is evolutionarily important as it affects mutation rates and genetic variability. They propose that asymmetrical DNA strand inheritance during cell division allows germline cells to retain mutation-free template strands, thereby reducing genetic errors. The article emphasizes the need for further research to validate the proposed mechanisms and the implications of germline sequestration in unicellular organisms. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:BioEssays. 2025/06, Vol. 47, Issue 6, p1
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0265-9247
  • DOI:10.1002/bies.70012
  • Accession Number:185398469
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