The definitive guide to gene editing.
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Term · Ethics

Somatic

Affecting the body's ordinary cells rather than eggs, sperm or embryos. Somatic changes are not inherited, and all approved gene editing is somatic.

Written by The CRISPR Atlas editorial team Last updated Aug 19, 2026
Educational information only This page is a reference, not medical advice. Research and regulatory status change; check the last-updated date above and confirm anything important against the primary sources listed.