Germline cells

Germline cells are specialized cells in the body that develop into sperm in males and eggs in females. They are unique because they pass genetic information from parents to offspring, meaning they carry the DNA that determines inherited traits. These cells undergo a process called meiosis, which reduces their chromosome number by half, ensuring that when sperm and egg combine during fertilization, the resulting embryo has a complete set of chromosomes. Germline cells are essential for sexual reproduction and genetic continuity across generations. Unlike other body cells, changes or mutations in germline cells can be inherited by future generations.