An example of a genetic mutation is cystic fibrosis, which is a hereditary condition.
Genetic mutations are changes in the DNA sequence. These alterations can result in a variety of effects on an individual's health. Mutations can be inherited (passed down from parents) or occur spontaneously during a person's lifetime.
Types of Genetic Mutations
Here's a breakdown of types of genetic mutations using information from the provided references:
Hereditary Mutations
- These are mutations that are passed down from parent to child.
- Examples of hereditary mutations include:
- Cystic Fibrosis: Affects the lungs and digestive system.
- Hemophilia: Affects the blood's ability to clot.
- Sickle Cell Disease: Affects the shape of red blood cells.
Sporadic Mutations
- These are new mutations that occur randomly during a person's lifetime.
- Also known as spontaneous or new mutations.
- They affect only certain cells in the body.
Impact of Genetic Mutations
Genetic mutations can have a wide range of impacts, depending on:
- The location of the mutation in the DNA.
- The specific gene affected.
- The type of change in the DNA sequence.
Understanding Mutations
Mutations are fundamental to evolution, but they can also cause disease. Understanding these variations is crucial for medical research, genetic counseling, and developing new treatments.
| Mutation Type | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Hereditary | Passed down from parents to their offspring | Cystic Fibrosis, Hemophilia, Sickle Cell Disease |
| Sporadic | New mutations that occur during a person's life | Affect only some body cells |
