Mutation occurs when there is a change in the DNA sequence. Various types of DNA mutations can impact the human body differently.
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Mutations are defined as permanent changes that take place in the DNA sequence of any living organism. Changes occur in the arrangement of the four base pairs, namely A, T, G, and C. Most cells can potentially recognize a mutation and repair it before it gets fixed.
Often mutations are harmless, unless they result in tumor formations and cell death.
There are two basic causes of gene mutations.
1. Point mutation:
2. Chromosomal mutations:
Aneuploidy is a condition in which entire chromosomes may be lost or gained, as seen in the Down syndrome disorder in human beings. Here the person is born with an extra chromosome 21 and thus has three duplicates of that chromosome instead of just the normal two.
Polyploidy is seen when there is a gain of either three, four, or more sets of chromosomes instead of only two.
3. Recombination mutations:
1. Klinefelter syndrome:
In cats, an extra chromosome for the color of their fur on the X chromosome is carried, which results in more fur colors. This is usually seen in female cats since they inherit two X chromosomes, unlike male cats, who inherit only one X chromosome. This is typically seen in the female Calico cat, which has striking orange and black-colored fur. This is why they are known as Klinefelterâs Calicos.
2. Sickle Cell Disease (SCD):
1. What are the four types of mutations?
Germline, chromosomal, point, and frameshift mutations are the four types of mutations.
2. What are examples of mutations?
Colour blindness, cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, Haemophilia, Turner syndrome, etc., are some examples of mutations.
3. What is a mutation in science?
Mutation means a change in a genetic sequence of a living-organisms.
4. How do mutations occur?
Mutations can result from being exposed to certain viruses, ionizing radiations, chemicals, and also as a consequence of errors during cell division.
5. Are all mutations harmful?
Most mutations occurring in living organisms are not harmful, but some harmful ones may result in cancer or genetic disorders.
6. Where do mutations occur?
Germline mutations take place in sperms and eggs and may be passed on to the resulting offspring. Somatic mutations take place within the cells of the body and do not get passed on.
7. What is the role of mutations?
Mutations play a big role in evolution since new DNA sequences are created in a specific gene, resulting in new alleles. Also, mutations can bring about different traits in an organism.
8. What can change DNA?
Exposure to mutagens or conditions can cause changes in the genetic material or DNA of an organism.
9. What are the three main causes of mutation?
They are mutations occurring during DNA repair, mutations brought about due to mutagens, and mutations occurring during replication of DNA.
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