What type of mutation occurs in gametes and can be transmitted to offspring?

A germline mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that occurs in the reproductive cells, or gametes, such as sperm and eggs. This type of mutation is particularly significant because it can be passed on to the next generation if fertilization occurs. When a germline mutation is present in a gamete that contributes to the formation of an embryo, all cells in the resulting organism will carry that mutation, potentially leading to inherited genetic variations.

In contrast, somatic mutations occur in non-reproductive cells and are not transmitted to offspring, which is why germline mutations are essential for understanding inheritance and genetic diseases. Point mutations and insertion mutations, while specific types of genetic mutations, can occur in either somatic or germline contexts; their classification does not inherently determine their ability to be transmitted to the next generation. Therefore, the germline mutation is the crucial concept that highlights the aspect of heredity.