A small organism or early developmental stage of an organism, often used to refer to bacteria or the embryonic stage of plants and animals.

A reproductive cell (egg or sperm) that carries half the genetic information of an organism and contributes to the formation of a new organism.

One of the three primary layers of cells (ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm) in the early embryo that give rise to various tissues and organs.

The line of cells that gives rise to gametes and passes genetic information from one generation to the next.

A type of gene therapy that involves altering the genes in germ cells or embryos to pass on genetic modifications to future generations.

A genetic mutation that occurs in a germ cell and can be inherited by offspring.

The set of rules by which information encoded in DNA is translated into proteins, using codons to specify amino acids.

A healthcare professional who helps individuals and families understand genetic conditions and make informed decisions about testing and treatment.

A measure of the genetic divergence between two populations or species, often used in evolutionary biology.

The total variety of genetic characteristics within a population, species, or ecosystem.