Yes, meiosis can indeed cause mutations.
Meiosis, the process of cell division that creates gametes (sperm and egg cells), is susceptible to introducing new mutations. These mutations arise more frequently during meiosis compared to mitosis (regular cell division for growth and repair).
Why Mutations Occur During Meiosis:
- Genetic Recombination: A crucial part of meiosis is genetic recombination, also known as crossing over. This process involves the exchange of genetic material between homologous chromosomes, creating new combinations of genes.
- Double-Strand Breaks (DSBs): Recombination is initiated by double-strand breaks in the DNA. While these breaks are usually repaired accurately, errors can occur, leading to mutations.
- Increased Mutation Frequency: The reference states clearly that "new mutations also occur during meiosis, at frequencies much higher than during the mitotic cell cycles."
In essence, while meiosis is essential for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity, the mechanisms involved in creating that diversity also introduce the risk of mutations. These mutations can have varying effects, ranging from no noticeable impact to significant consequences for the offspring.
