Question

How do mutations affect DNA?

Answer 1

Mutation:

1. The mutation is the changing of the structure of a gene, resulting in a variant form that may be transmitted to subsequent generations, caused by the alteration of single base units in DNA, or the deletion, insertion, or rearrangement of larger sections of genes or chromosomes.
2. The mutation is the ultimate source of all genetic variations, it provides the raw material for evolution.

Mutations affect DNA, in the following ways:

1. DNA in our cells is translated by cell machinery to make proteins.
2. The sequence of amino acids in a protein determines its function.
3. The DNA sequence of a gene determines the amino acid sequence of the resulting protein.
4. Thus, any changes in DNA sequence can result in changes in protein function. This is called a mutation.
5. Mutations can be good, bad, or neutral depending upon whether the effect of the mutation is positive, negative, or unnoticed.