Question

Which of the following is inheritable?
(a) An altered gene in sperm
(b) An altered gene in liver cells
(c) An altered gene in skin cells
(d) An altered gene in udder cells

Answer 1

Hint: Inheritance rules are based on the fact that both the father and the mother equally contribute genetic material to their child, which means every characteristic that is inherited is influenced by the paternal and maternal DNA.

Complete answer:
An altered gene in sperm is inheritable because the genes are transmitted by sperm and egg. Thus if there was any alteration in sperm with the egg than that alteration will be inherited by the child. Liver cells, skin cells, and udder cells are somatic cells but sperm is a reproductive cell. Therefore, variation or mutation or alteration in the reproductive cell only proceeds onto the next generation.

Though human beings are unique, there are a set of common characteristics that we all share with the members of our family, with our peers, etc. We possess a unique set of traits. While some traits are governed by genes that are inherited from parents to the offspring, there are traits that are acquired through observing, learning, most of which are determined by a combination of environmental factors and genes. A few examples are: Tongue rolling, Earlobe attachment, Dimples, Curly hair, etc.
So, the correct answer is ‘An altered gene in sperm’.

Note: Acquired traits, on the other hand, are characteristics that are acquired by an individual in his lifetime. It may have come due to his own activities or external effect. Unlike inherited traits, acquired traits cannot be genetically passed on to the subsequent generation. Examples are the ability to dance, cook well, etc.