Untitled Flashcards Set

Mutation

A change in DNA due to errors in replication or external factors (mutagens).

Base substitution mutation

A single nucleotide change in DNA, which can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful.

Germ cells

Cells that can pass mutations to offspring.

Somatic cells

Cells that do not pass mutations to offspring.

HIV immunity mutation

A mutation in a receptor protein that prevents HIV binding.

Beneficial mutation examples

Mutations that provide advantages such as HIV immunity or resistance to diseases like diabetes.

Insertion mutation

A mutation where extra nucleotides are added, potentially disrupting protein function.

Deletion mutation

A mutation where nucleotides are removed, often causing severe effects.

Inversion mutation

A mutation where a section of DNA is reversed.

Silent mutation

A base change that does not alter the final protein due to the degeneracy of the genetic code.

Sickle-Cell Anemia mutation

A harmful mutation caused by a base substitution leading to valine replacing glutamic acid in hemoglobin.

Huntington's Disease

A condition caused by excessive CAG trinucleotide repeats in the HTT gene.

CRISPR-Cas9

A gene-editing tool that can modify or deactivate specific DNA sequences.

Conserved sequences

Genetic sequences that remain unchanged through evolution due to their crucial roles.

Diversity of alleles

Different versions of genes that contribute to genetic variation among organisms.

Degeneracy in the genetic code

The phenomenon where multiple codons can code for the same amino acid, providing some resistance to mutations.