Mutations and DNA variations
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Questions and Answers

In the context of DNA structure, what is the role of a codon?

  • To regulate the speed of DNA replication.
  • To carry the genetic code that specifies an amino acid or signals the end of a protein. (correct)
  • To provide structural support to the DNA double helix.
  • To protect the DNA from damage caused by ultraviolet radiation.

Which of the following mutations involves the addition of one or more nucleotide base pairs into a DNA sequence?

  • Substitution
  • Deletion
  • Translocation
  • Insertion (correct)

What type of mutation is exemplified by sickle cell anemia, where a single nucleotide is altered, leading to a different amino acid being incorporated into the hemoglobin protein?

  • Insertion
  • Deletion
  • Inversion
  • Substitution (correct)

Down syndrome is caused by having three copies of chromosome 21. Which type of mutation is this?

<p>Trisomy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the agents such as ultraviolet radiation or specific chemicals that can induce mutations in DNA?

<p>Mutagens (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A scientist is studying a new type of genetic mutation in a sample of bacteria. After analyzing the DNA sequence, they discover that a particular segment of the genetic code is missing. Which type of mutation is most likely occurring in these bacteria?

<p>Deletion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a DNA sequence originally reads ATC GCG TAA and mutates to ATC GCG, what type of mutation has occurred?

<p>Deletion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A mutation in a non-reproductive cell is called a somatic mutation. Which of the below is most likely to occur due to somatic mutations?

<p>The organism may develop cancer due to uncontrolled cell division. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are mutations essential for evolution?

<p>They create variation within a population, providing the raw material for natural selection. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a gene-level mutation?

<p>A change to a short sequence of nucleotides, potentially affecting a physical characteristic. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A population of insects is repeatedly exposed to a particular insecticide. Over time, a significant portion of the population becomes resistant to the insecticide. What type of mutation is most likely responsible for this?

<p>A germ-line mutation that provided resistance, which was then passed on and spread through natural selection. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A scientist is studying a new species of plant. They observe a chromosomal mutation is present in this species. What is likely to be the result of this mutation?

<p>The plant will experience serious consequences. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a scenario where a germ-line mutation results in a new allele that provides significantly enhanced protection against a common disease. What is the most likely long-term outcome for individuals carrying this allele?

<p>They will have a higher chance of survival and reproduction, leading to the allele becoming more common in future generations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a population of birds, a mutation arises that causes some birds to have slightly longer beaks. Under what circumstance would this mutation likely lead to an evolutionary change in the bird population?

<p>If the environment changes such that longer beaks allow the birds to access a previously unavailable food source, increasing their survival and reproduction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why can mutations be considered neither good nor bad?

<p>Mutations are changes and can lead to variations which help an organism reproduce and survive or hinder it. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Mutations

Changes in DNA sequence that can affect an organism's traits.

Alleles

Slightly different versions of the same genetic information, created by mutations.

Natural selection

The process where beneficial variations help organisms survive and reproduce, passing traits to the next generation.

Somatic mutations

Mutations in non-reproductive cells; not passed to offspring.

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Germ-line mutations

Mutations in reproductive cells; passed on to offspring.

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Gene-level mutations

Changes to short lengths of nucleotides affecting physical characteristics.

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Chromosomal mutations

Changes to long lengths of nucleotides, often with serious consequences.

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Mutation effects

The effects of mutations may vary from none at all to death.

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What is Trisomy?

Having three copies of a chromosome instead of two.

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What are Spontaneous Mutations?

Random errors during DNA replication or cell division.

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What are Mutagens?

External agents that can cause changes in DNA.

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What are Codons?

A sequence of three DNA bases (nucleotides) that codes for an amino acid or a stop signal.

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What is Substitution (mutation)?

Replacing one codon (or nucleotide) with another in a DNA sequence.

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What is Insertion (mutation)?

The addition of extra base pairs into a DNA sequence.

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What is Deletion (mutation)?

The loss or removal of a section of DNA from a sequence.

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Study Notes

Mutations and DNA

  • DNA serves as our genetic code, inherited from our parents.
  • Mutations are essential for evolution.
  • Mutations create alleles, different versions of genetic information that make individuals unique.
  • Variations that improve survival and reproduction are passed on, while those that hinder survival lead to elimination.
  • Natural selection, driven by mutations, leads to changes in appearance, behavior, and physiology over generations.

Types of Mutations

  • Mutations can range from having no effect to causing death.
  • Somatic mutations occur in non-reproductive cells and are typically not passed to offspring but can lead to conditions like cancer.
  • Germ-line mutations occur in reproductive cells and are passed to offspring.
  • Gene-level mutations affect short nucleotide lengths, influencing physical traits and large-scale evolution.
  • Chromosomal mutations involve long nucleotide lengths and can have serious consequences, like Down syndrome.

Causes and Mechanisms of Mutations

  • Mutations can occur spontaneously or be caused by mutagens like chemicals and UV radiation.
  • DNA is divided into codons which are sets of three bases or nucleotides represented by adenine (A), cytosine (C), guanine (G), and thymine (T).
  • Codons specify amino acids (protein building blocks) or signal the end of a protein.
  • Types of DNA changes include substitution like in sickle cell anemia, insertion, and deletion.

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Mutations in DNA are crucial for evolution, creating alleles that result in individual differences. Somatic mutations affect non-reproductive cells, while germ-line mutations are passed to offspring. These mutations can range from having no effect to causing death.

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