Mitotic Recombination

**Semantic type:** Genetic Function

**Definition:** Any type of recombination occurring within somatic cells and involving possible exchange and frequent loss of segments of DNA by either homologous or nonhomologous recombination of broken DNA strands. This process may be involved in lengthening telomeres and in resolving breaks induced by radiation, mutagenic chemicals and collapsed replication forks. Disruptions in mitotic recombination may result in predisposition to cancers.