Question

Can viruses cause genetic mutations?

Answer 1

Viruses

1. Viruses are microscopic infectious agents.
2. Viruses contain either DNA or RNA as their genetic material.
3. Viruses require host cells for replication.
4. Viruses are known for causing disease
5. Viruses incorporate their genetic material into host cells and acquire their machinery for replication.
6. Example COVID-19 Virus, Ebola Virus, Swine flu, etc.

Mutation

1. The mutation is a sudden change in the genetic material of orgasms and the substances causing mutations are called mutagens.
2. Germ cell mutation transfer from one generation to another.
3. Somatic cell mutation does not transfer from generation to generation.
4. Genetic mutations can occur by insertion of a new gene, deletion of the gene, or Chromosomal deletion.
5. Viruses cause a genetic mutation by the insertion of a new gene into the chromosome.