What type of cells undergo meiosis to produce gametes?

Germ-line cells are the correct type of cells that undergo meiosis to produce gametes, which are the reproductive cells (sperm and eggs in animals). These cells are specifically designated for the transmission of genetic information to the next generation. During meiosis, germ-line cells undergo two rounds of division, resulting in four genetically diverse gametes, each with half the number of chromosomes compared to the original germ-line cell. This reduction in chromosome number is crucial for maintaining the stability of an organism's chromosome number across generations when fertilization occurs.

In contrast, somatic cells are all the other cell types in the body that do not contribute to reproduction and undergo mitosis rather than meiosis. Stem cells can differentiate into various cell types but do not specifically produce gametes unless they are germ-line stem cells. Endothelial cells line blood vessels and are involved in circulation but are also unrelated to gamete production. Each of these cell types has distinct roles and processes, emphasizing the unique function of germ-line cells in reproduction.