A change in genetic material, often resulting in a character change (e.g. a morphological or chemical change) in a taxon or subset of a taxon.
A change in hereditary constitution that causes genetically transmissible permanent differences. May occur spontaneously or may be induced by such agents as high-energy radiation.
A permanent structural alteration in DNA.
From the Latin term mutare, meaning “to change.” Any change that alters the sequence of the nucleotide bases in the genetic material (DNA) of an organism or cell; with alteration occurring either by displacement, addition, deletion, cross-linking, or other destruction. The alteration to the DNA sequence would alter its meaning, that is, its ability to produce the normal amount or normal kind of protein, so the (organism or cell) is itself altered. Such an altered organism is called a mutant.
A variation or change in genetic structure.
A spontaneous change in genetic material, often resulting in a change of characteristics.
In genetics, a permanent change in the genetic material, usually a single gene.
A change in DNA which changes the physiological effect of the DNA on the cell.
When the sequence of bases in the DNA is disturbed by a deletion, repetition, or substitution of one or more of the bases, the code is said to be mutated and the protein coded by this sequence will not be synthesized in its normal amino acid sequence. The amino acid sequence determines the shape and function of the protein. Many mutations occur that have an effect on this sequence but have no effect on function because the substitution or deletion does not occur in the active or working part of the protein molecule.
A change in the coding for the DNA in the genes and chromosomes that form a being’s genetic inheritance. Sometimes mutations can be beneficial, or at least neutral. But most mutations are dangerous and possibly life-threatening, giving rise to genetic disorders and chromosomal abnormalities. Some mutations occur spontaneously, as mistakes in the duplication of DNA in the cells that are then duplicated in the normal process of reproduction. If the mutation occurs in the “sex cells” from which the sperm and egg (ovum) are formed, it may be passed on to any children. But if the mutation occurs in other parts of the body, it will not be heritable, though its effects may be deadly, such as a cancerous tumor. Some mutations are at least partly triggered by environmental influences, such as radiation or carcinogens (cancer-causing substances).
change in the genetic structure; it may occur spontaneously or be induced (e.g., by radiation or certain mutagenic chemicals).
A permanent structural change in the genetic material of a cell that can be passed on to subsequent generations. Mutations usually appear in single genes and result from changes in the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid). Most mutations either have no effect or are harmful, causing cancers, birth defects, and hereditary diseases. Some mutations, however, can improve the survival chances of an organism.
A change in the genetic material (DNA) of a cell, or the change this causes in a characteristic of the individual, which is not caused by normal genetic processes. In a point (or gene) mutation there is a change in a single gene; in a chromosome mutation there is a change in the structure or number of the chromosomes. All mutations are rare events and may occur spontaneously or be caused by external agents (‘mutagens). If a mutation occurs in developing sex cells (gametes) it may be inherited. Mutations in any other cells (somatic mutations) are not inherited.
A change occurring in the genetic material (DNA) in the chromosomes of a cell. It is caused by a fault in the replication of a cell’s genetic material when it divides to form two daughter cells. Mutations may occur in somatic cells, and may result in a local growth of the new type of cells. These may be destroyed by the body’s defense mechanism or they may develop into a tumour. If mutation occurs in a germ cell or gamete the organism’s sex cells the outcome may be a changed inherited characteristic in succeeding generations. Mutations occur rarely, but a small steady number are caused by background radiation in the environment. They are also caused by mutagens.
A mutation refers to an alteration in a cell’s DNA. While many mutations are benign, some can be detrimental, leading to cancers, congenital anomalies, and inherited diseases. On rare occasions, a mutation can be advantageous.
A mutation occurs due to an error in DNA replication during cell division. This mistake gets passed to the offspring cell, and every subsequent division of this new cell replicates the error, leading to a group of cells with the modified DNA.
Some mutations happen randomly. Any agent that increases the likelihood of mutations is termed a mutagen.
Mutations can be of various kinds. Point mutations impact a single gene, potentially resulting in faulty enzymes or proteins. Other mutations involve the deletion, addition, or rearrangement of chromosomes or their segments. These can often have more significant disruptive consequences than point mutations.
When a mutation occurs in a somatic (body) cell, it may proliferate to create a cluster of irregular cells. These cells typically either perish, are eliminated by the body’s immune response, or cause minimal disruption. However, on occasion, they can develop into a tumor.
A mutation occurring in a germ cell, which is an immature egg or sperm, can be transmitted to an offspring. As a result, the child will carry the mutation in all of their cells. This situation can lead to noticeable birth defects or disruptions in the body’s chemical makeup. Furthermore, the mutation has the potential to be inherited by the child’s future generations. Genetic disorders like haemophilia and achondroplasia arise from point mutations that originated in the germ cell of a parent, grandparent, or even a more distant ancestor. On the other hand, chromosomal abnormalities such as Down’s syndrome generally emerge from mutations during the development of parental eggs or sperm.
A transformation in shape or trait. In biology, this pertains to alterations in chromosomes or genes that lead to noticeable shifts in an individual’s features. These changes are inheritable and can signify a specific step in a species’ gradual evolution. Mutations can arise naturally or be triggered artificially through methods like x-rays or radioactivity.
A transformation in shape, quality, or another attribute. In genetics, it refers to a lasting and heritable alteration in the genetic material, typically affecting a single gene.