Question

Would a mutation in a red blood cell be passed on to offspring? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

Mutations acquired by somatic cells are generally only retained by the individual they acquire in as there is no vector by which to transmit the mutation.

Between generations, the only mutations that may be transmitted are those already acquired from a parent, and those that occur within the individuals own germ cells. If mutations in the germ cells result in sperm or eggs that contain that mutation, then they may be transmitted to their offspring.

Red blood cells in all humans and other mammals, though, don't contain nuclear DNA and as such cannot acquire mutations.

Answer 2

The mutation that takes place in the somatic cells are not carried from one generation to another generation.

The mutation in the red blood cells cannot takes place because the red blood cells does not have nucleus in them.

This is so because there is a need to increase the surface area for the maximum transport of the oxygen from the lungs to the various parts of the body.

When the RBC do not have nucleus then there will be no mutation in the RBC so there is no chance that it is transferred from one generation to another generation.