Somatic cell mutations in cancer epidemiology
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 14, 2026

Transgenic Rodent Assay for Quantifying Male Germ Cell Mutant Frequency
Published on: August 6, 2014
1Genetics Laboratory, University of Vermont, Burlington 05401-0508, USA.
Abstract:
Somatic cell mutations arising in vivo in reporter genes and in cancer-associated genes may now be measured in humans. Background mutation levels and mutational responses following various mutagen exposures are reviewed in this chapter. The detection methods are compared for similarities and differences based on the underlying biology of the systems. Currently available data on molecular mutational spectra are reviewed and the utility of such information is discussed in terms of mutagen exposure characterization and for defining the mutagenic basis of carcinogenesis. In addition to the reporter gene assays, recently developed assays for mutation in cancer-associated genes are considered. The strengths and limitations of using somatic cell mutations for cancer epidemiology and areas for future research are discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Mutations
Cancers Originate from Somatic Mutations in a Single Cell
Cancer Prevention
Some...
Mutations
Chromosomal Alterations Are Large-Scale Mutations
While point mutations are changes in a single nucleotide in...
Cancers Originate from Somatic Mutations in a Single Cell
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...

