How would a biologist determine that a mutation has occurred when ?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the visibility of mutations and how a biologist can determine if a mutation has occurred and what type it is. Cancer is used as an example of a mutation that can be tested for through IV and imaging. The conversation also mentions that not all mutations are cancerous and that comparing DNA from past and present can help determine if a mutation has occurred. Additionally, transferring genes to organisms with haploid life cycles can also reveal mutations.
  • #1
alliereid
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Homework Statement



The effects of a mutation are not always visible. How might a biologist determine whether a mutation has occurred, and if so, what type of mutation it is?

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The Attempt at a Solution



Would it be correct to say that cancer is not always visible, so they can run test to see if the patient has cancer?
 
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i guess so, but cancer is testable, due to abnormal growth in cells, so what they do is sometimes they give you this IV that has a slightly radioactive substance in it, then they let it circulate in your system and then take an image of it. The areas that have a high concentration of it usually mean that there is abnormal growth there, which usually indicates cancer. Cancer is also indicated by an abnormal lump or growth. i.e a lump in the breast ususally is breast cancer, so a mamography, or self-examination usually id's that, and a prostate exam usually tells if the prostate has cancer. To the best of my knowledge, mutations cannot be traced back to when they occured, because it would be in the DNA, and that is multiplied many times over the same day, so it probably cannot be traced. As to what type of mutation has occured, in humans, it is usually traceable to what it does, because we have mapped the human genome. This means that they mapped the healthy version of the gene and if its mutated, then they can probably tell what it would change. Hope i helped you! =D
 
  • #3
Not all mutations are cancerous.
A way to check it would be to compare DNA from past and present. If the mutation is cancerous then it hsould be testable.
The best way is to transfer the genes to something that has a haploid life cycle ie: Yest Artificial Chromosomes, and other fungi. And if there is a mutation it'll show up, recessive or not.
 

1. How would a biologist determine that a mutation has occurred when looking at DNA?

Biologists use techniques such as DNA sequencing, gel electrophoresis, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify mutations in DNA. These methods allow them to compare the sequence of DNA from an individual with a known, normal sequence to identify any differences or mutations.

2. Can a biologist determine if a mutation has occurred in an individual organism?

Yes, biologists can determine if a mutation has occurred in an individual organism by analyzing the individual's DNA. They can also look for physical changes or characteristics in the organism that may indicate a mutation has occurred.

3. How long does it take for a biologist to determine if a mutation has occurred in a sample of DNA?

The time it takes for a biologist to determine if a mutation has occurred in a sample of DNA can vary depending on the complexity of the mutation and the techniques being used. In some cases, it may only take a few hours to identify a mutation, while in others it may take several days or even weeks.

4. Are there any limitations to how a biologist can determine if a mutation has occurred?

There are some limitations to the methods used by biologists to determine if a mutation has occurred. For example, some mutations may be very small and difficult to detect, or they may occur in regions of DNA that are difficult to sequence. Additionally, some mutations may not have any noticeable effects on the organism's physical characteristics, making them harder to identify.

5. Can a biologist determine if a mutation has occurred in all types of organisms?

Yes, biologists can determine if a mutation has occurred in all types of organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. The techniques used to identify mutations may vary depending on the type of organism, but the underlying principles remain the same.

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