Mutation

:This article is about mutation in biology, for other meanings see: mutation (disambiguation).

Related Topics:
Biology - Mutation (disambiguation)

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Mutations are permanent, sometimes transmissible (if the change is to a germ cell) changes to the genetic material (usually DNA or RNA) of a cell. Mutations can be caused by copying errors in the genetic material during cell division and by exposure to radiation, chemicals, or viruses, or can occur deliberately under cellular control during the processes such as meiosis or hypermutation. In multicellular organisms, mutations can be subdivided into germline mutations, which can be passed on to progeny and somatic mutations, which (when accidental) often lead to the malfunction or death of a cell and can cause cancer. Mutations are considered the driving force of evolution, where less favorable (or deleterious) mutations are removed from the gene pool by natural selection, while more favorable (or beneficial) ones tend to accumulate. Neutral mutations do not affect the organism's chances of survival in its natural environment and can accumulate over time, which might result in what is known as punctuated equilibrium, the modern interpretation of classic evolutionary theory.

Related Topics:
Germ cell - Genetic material - DNA - RNA - Cell - Cell division - Radiation - Viruses - Meiosis - Hypermutation - Germline - Somatic - Cancer - Evolution - Natural selection - Neutral mutations - Punctuated equilibrium

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Contrary to tales of science fiction, the overwhelming majority of mutations have no significant effect. Even less DNA changes have visible effects as DNA repair is able to reverse most changes before they become permanent mutations.

Related Topics:
Science fiction - DNA repair

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