Mutation

Question 1

Mutation

Answer 1

Alteration of the nucleotide sequence. A result of replication errors or errors during DNA repair.

Question 2

How are mutations caused

Answer 2

• Can be caused by the insertion of transposable mobile elements (e.g. viruses)
• Can occur naturally from the replication process
• Can occur from the introduction of environmental factors (mutagens) which may damage the DNA and allow for mutations to occur through incorrect repair mechanisms.

Question 3

Mutagen

Answer 3

Any factor that increases the mutation rate above the natural rate of mutation

Question 4

Wobble mispairing

Answer 4

Noncomplimentary bases bond inappropriately

Question 5

What is meant by 3’ to 5’ exonuclease activity

Answer 5

Proofreading function in some DNA polymerases. When DN polymerizes the newly replicated strand it rechecks the last base added (3” to 5’) and removes it if incorrect

Question 6

What happens if a wobble mismatch is not repaired through proofreading?

Answer 6

Mutation can become permanent in the next replication cycle