Question

difference between dna recombination and mutations?

Answer 1

Dear student,

DNA recombination is the process which involves the exchange of genetic material either between multiple chromosomes or between different regions of the same chromosome. This process is generally mediated by homology; that is, homologous regions of chromosomes line up in preparation for exchange, and some degree of sequence identity is required. It leads to the formation of new combinations. The consequence of these kind of new combination are new characters and traits in the organism.

DNA mutations are the sudden changes that takes place in the DNA sequence of an organism. These are the permanent changes that can be either induced or occur naturally leading to the variation in the populations. Mutations result from damage to DNA which is not repaired , errors in the process of replication, or from the insertion or deletion of segments of DNA. Mutations may or may not produce discernible changes in the phenotype of an organism. Mutations play a part in both normal and abnormal biological processes including: evolution and cancer and the development of the immune system.

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