A genetic mutation is a permanent change in the DNA sequence of an organism. These changes can occur spontaneously or can be caused by external factors such as radiation or chemicals. Mutations can have a range of effects, from no impact to causing serious health conditions.
A point mutation is a type of genetic mutation where a single nucleotide base is changed in the DNA sequence. This can occur due to errors during DNA replication or exposure to mutagens. Point mutations can result in the production of a different amino acid during protein synthesis, which can affect the functioning of the resulting protein.
A nonsense mutation is a type of point mutation that results in the premature termination of protein synthesis. This occurs when a point mutation changes a codon for an amino acid into a stop codon, which signals the end of protein synthesis. Nonsense mutations can result in the production of non-functional proteins.
Yes, genetic mutations can be inherited from parents. These mutations can be passed down through the germline cells (sperm and egg cells) and can be present in all cells of an offspring's body. Inherited mutations can increase the risk of certain genetic disorders or diseases.
Yes, some genetic mutations can be beneficial. For example, mutations can lead to increased genetic diversity in a population, which can improve the chances of survival in changing environments. Additionally, some mutations can confer resistance to certain diseases or conditions, providing a survival advantage for individuals who carry them.