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PIT2
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What does the 'random' in random mutation really mean?
Main Entry: 1ran·dom
Pronunciation: 'ran-d&m
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, succession, surge, from Anglo-French randun, from Old French randir to run, of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German rinnan to run -- more at RUN
: a haphazard course
- at random : without definite aim, direction, rule, or method <subjects chosen at random>
But with 6 x 109 base pairs in a human cell, that mean that each new cell contains some 120 new mutations.
PIT2 said:I wanted to know where the border between random and nonrandom is. If there is a clear seperation, if it is possible to detect nonrandom mutations, or if some of the known ones have already crossed the border.
I see u talk about 'replication errors', but these are caused by something as well I am sure u agree. So what u are really saying is that when a mutation has an outside cause, it is not random?Moridin said:The main difference between a random and a nonrandom event is that a nonrandom event is influenced directly by something that causes that mutation. A random error in DNA replication as a cause of error(s) made by the system by chance can be considered a random mutation. Mutation that occur by exposure to UV radiation can be defined as a nonrandom mutation.
PIT2 said:I see u talk about 'replication errors', but these are caused by something as well I am sure u agree. So what u are really saying is that when a mutation has an outside cause, it is not random?
PIT2 said:What does the 'random' in random mutation really mean?
Moridin said:Be careful with labeling mutations as only harmful, for that is not true. Mutations can be either harmful, beneficial or neutral.
fournier17 said:while non lethal mutations(mutations on genes that are not essential to life)
do allow a cell to live and pass on the mutations to its offspring. QUOTE]
I agree.
In the context of genetics, "random" refers to the idea that mutations occur randomly, without any predetermined purpose or direction. They can occur in any location within the genome and can affect any gene or nucleotide sequence.
Random mutations can be caused by a variety of factors, including errors in DNA replication, exposure to environmental toxins or radiation, and spontaneous chemical changes in DNA. They can also be caused by mobile genetic elements, such as transposons, which can insert themselves into different locations within the genome.
Random mutations are a key driver of evolution, as they introduce new genetic variations into a population. These variations can then be selected for or against by natural selection, leading to changes in the genetic makeup of a species over time.
No, not all random mutations are harmful. In fact, some mutations can be beneficial and provide an advantage to an organism, such as increased resistance to disease. However, the majority of mutations are neutral, meaning they have no significant impact on an organism's fitness.
In general, random mutations cannot be controlled or prevented. However, certain factors, such as avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation, can reduce the likelihood of mutations occurring. Additionally, genetic engineering techniques can be used to intentionally introduce specific mutations for research or practical purposes.