Final answer:
Individuals with a history of early-onset colon cancer may carry inherited mutations in DNA repair genes. Non-inherited mutations occur in somatic cells and do not get passed to offspring. Defects in DNA synthesis or nucleotide biosynthesis increase mutation risks, potentially leading to cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Affected individuals in some families with a history of early-onset colon cancer have been found to carry mutations in repair genes or tumor suppressor genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Mutations arising in somatic cells are not inherited, as they do not occur in germ cells which transmit genetic information to the next generation. A defect in DNA synthesis or nucleotide biosynthesis would probably increase the risk of mutations that could lead to cancer, due to errors in DNA that are not properly repaired.
In families with a history of early-onset colon cancer, affected individuals often carry mutations in repair genes or tumor suppressor genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2. It's crucial to note that these mutations, associated with hereditary forms of cancer, are present in the germ cells and can be inherited, contributing to a familial predisposition to cancer. In contrast, mutations arising in somatic cells during an individual's lifetime are not inherited, as they do not affect the germ cells responsible for transmitting genetic information to the next generation.
A defect in DNA synthesis or nucleotide biosynthesis could indeed heighten the risk of mutations leading to cancer. Errors in DNA replication or inadequate repair mechanisms can accumulate, contributing to genetic instability and an increased likelihood of cancerous transformations. This underscores the importance of proper DNA maintenance processes in safeguarding genomic integrity and preventing the onset of cancer.