Mutations Flashcards
What causes mutations?
mistakes that happen during DNA replication and mutagens
Mutagen
physical or chemical factors that cause mutations (ex. x-rays and u-v lights)
What are the types of mutations?
Point (base substitution) and frameshift
Point mutation (base substitution)
exchanging one nucleotide for another
Frameshift mutation
the deletion or insertion of one or more nucleotides to a DNA molecule
When a point mutation occurs, but it still codes for the same amino acid, it is called…
a silent mutation
After a point mutation, what happens?
one amino acid on the polypeptide chain is changed
After a frameshift mutation, what happens?
all of the amino acids will change from the point of the deletion/insertion and onward.
Which mutation could potentially create a still functioning protein?
point mutation
Frameshift mutations drastically change…
the protein that is made
When are mutations passed from parent to offspring?
only when they occur in reproductive or germ cells - sperm or egg