GI: Mutations

Question 1

What do gene mutations involve?

Answer 1

Changes in the DNA base sequence of chromosomes.

Question 2

What does the degenerate nature of DNA mean?

Answer 2

Some amino acids are coded for by more than on DNA triplet, so not all substitutions will result in a change to amino acid sequences.

Question 3

Will deletions always result in a change to the amino acid sequence?

Answer 3

Yes, it will cause a shift in all following base triplets.

Question 4

What increase the rate of mutation?

Answer 4

Mutagenic agents, eg. ultraviolet radiation, ionising radiation, chemicals and some viruses.