BIOL 1001 - Chapter 15: Causes and Consequences of Mutations and DNA Repair

These flashcards cover important vocabulary related to mutations, DNA repair, and cancer genetics based on lecture notes for BIOL 1001.

Mutation

A heritable change in the genetic material.

Chromosomal mutations

Substantial alterations of genetic material changing multiple genes.

Gene mutations

Small changes affecting the nucleotide sequence of one gene.

Point mutation

A mutation that changes one base pair to another or adds/removes a single base pair.

Silent mutation

A mutation resulting in no alteration in the amino acid sequence.

Nonsense mutation

A mutation that results in a stop codon, terminating translation prematurely.

Missense mutation

A mutation resulting in a new triplet code for a different amino acid.

Frameshift mutation

A mutation that results from insertions or deletions of a base pair, shifting the reading frame.

Spontaneous mutations

Mutations that occur due to abnormalities in biological processes.

Induced mutations

Mutations caused by environmental agents.

Mutagen

An agent that causes a mutation.

Chemical mutagens

Agents that modify the structure of nucleotides and interfere with DNA replication.

Physical mutagens

Agents such as radiation that can alter DNA structure.

DNA repair

The ability of organisms to repair damage to DNA.

Tumorigenesis

The development of a malignant tumor.

Oncogene

A gene that, when mutated, leads to cancer by becoming overactive.

Tumor-suppressor genes

Genes that normally prevent cancer; mutations can lead to cancer.

Metastasis

The process of cancer cells invading other tissues and/or the bloodstream.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death that occurs when DNA or chromosomal damage cannot be repaired.