DNA Mutations

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What is a mutation?

Back

A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in the structure and function of proteins.

Front

What are the main types of mutations?

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The main types of mutations are substitutions, insertions, deletions, and duplications.

Front

What is a frameshift mutation?

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A frameshift mutation occurs when bases are inserted or deleted from the DNA sequence, altering the reading frame.

Front

What is a substitution mutation?

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A substitution mutation is when one base is replaced by another in the DNA sequence.

Front

What is a nonsense mutation?

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A nonsense mutation is a type of substitution that creates a stop codon, leading to premature termination of protein synthesis.

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What is a missense mutation?

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A missense mutation is a substitution that results in a different amino acid being incorporated into a protein.

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What is a silent mutation?

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A silent mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that does not alter the amino acid sequence of a protein.

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What causes mutations?

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Mutations can be caused by environmental factors (like radiation and chemicals) or can occur spontaneously during DNA replication.

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What is the role of DNA repair mechanisms?

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DNA repair mechanisms correct errors in DNA to prevent mutations from becoming permanent.

Front

What is an insertion mutation?

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An insertion mutation occurs when one or more extra bases are added into the DNA sequence.