Gene Mutation Flashcards
What causes mutations
Mutagens such as chemicals, uv radiation, and viruses
What is a mutation
Heritable changes In the genetic information
Somatic cells
Body cells
Mutations that occur here result in killing that body cell only
Cannot be based on to the next generation and do not affect the individual
Gamete cells
Sex cells
Mutations that occur here means that every cell of the developing baby will have that mutation
Affects individual and can be passed to next generation
What are the two types of mutations that can occur in gamete cells?
Gene mutations - a change to a small section of DNA that controls a trait
Chromosomal mutations - all or part of a chromosome is changed (affects many genes)
What is a point mutation?
A single point in the DNA sequence is affected
One base Is changed into another base
And only affects one amino acid
What is a frame shift mutation?
A single nitrogen base is deleted or added from the mRNA sequence causing a shift in the reading of the genetic message
Bases can be added or deleted
How are frame shift mutations effects more dramatic that point mutations
Frame shift mutations may change every amino acid that follows the area of the mutation and alter proteins so much that it is unable to perform its normal function
