4-4 Mutations

Mutation

Any change in the genetic material of a cell.

Heritable mutations

Mutations that can be passed from parent to offspring, specifically those occurring in gamete-producing cells.

Gene mutations

Mutations that produce a change in a single gene.

Chromosomal mutations

Mutations that produce changes in whole chromosomes.

Point mutations

Mutations in which a single base pair of DNA has been changed.

Substitutions

The only type of point mutation, occurring when one base pair is replaced by another.

Frameshift mutations

Mutations that shift the reading frame of the genetic message by inserting or deleting nucleotides.

Insertions

A type of frameshift mutation where a nucleotide is added into a DNA sequence.

Deletions

A type of frameshift mutation where a nucleotide is removed from a DNA sequence.

Mutagen

A chemical or physical agent that causes mutations.

Silent mutations

Mutations that do not change the final outcome of a protein due to the redundancy of the genetic code.

Beneficial mutations

Mutations that contribute to evolution and genetic variability within a species.

Harmful mutations

Mutations that drastically change protein structure or gene activity, leading to genetic disorders.