Genetics
Germline
The cell lineage that produces reproductive cells (eggs and sperm). Only genetic changes in germline cells can be inherited by offspring; changes in somatic (body) cells die with the individual.
Biological Context
The germline/somatic distinction is fundamental to heredity. Germline cells are protected and isolated early in development. Mutations in germline cells pass to offspring; mutations in somatic cells affect only that individual. This separation enables evolution while protecting genetic integrity.
Business Application
Organizations have 'germline' elements—founding documents, core values, equity structures—that persist across leadership changes. Changes to these propagate to future organizational 'generations'; operational changes do not.