Genes mutate a sequence of DNA.
Understanding Gene Mutations
A gene mutation is essentially a change in the DNA sequence that makes up a gene. This can happen spontaneously or be caused by external factors. Because your DNA sequence provides cells with the instructions needed to function correctly, alterations can sometimes lead to problems.
What exactly changes during a mutation?
- DNA Sequence: The order of nucleotide bases (adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine) within a gene can be altered.
- Incorrect Placement: Part of the DNA sequence can be moved to a new location.
- Incomplete Sequence: Sections of the DNA might be missing.
- Damaged Sequence: The DNA can sustain physical or chemical damage.
These changes can have a range of consequences. According to the reference, "If part of your DNA sequence is in the wrong place, isn't complete or is damaged, you might experience symptoms of a genetic condition." This means some mutations are harmful and others are harmless or even beneficial.
Types of Mutations
Here are some examples of types of mutations:
| Mutation Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Point | A single nucleotide base is changed. |
| Insertion | An extra nucleotide base is added into the sequence. |
| Deletion | A nucleotide base is removed from the sequence. |
| Duplication | A section of DNA is copied multiple times. |
| Frameshift | Insertions or deletions that alter the reading frame of the genetic code, leading to a completely different protein. |
