POINT MUTATION Meaning and
Definition
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A point mutation is a type of genetic mutation that involves a change in a single nucleotide base pair within a DNA molecule. It occurs when one nucleotide is substituted for another, resulting in a modification of the genetic code. This alteration can happen during DNA replication or due to external factors such as environmental influences, chemicals, or radiation.
Point mutations can be categorized into several types: substitutions, insertions, and deletions. Substitutions occur when a nucleotide base is replaced by another, leading to the replacement of one amino acid in the resulting protein molecule. Insertions happen when extra nucleotides are inserted within the DNA sequence, causing a shift in the reading frame and potentially resulting in a completely different protein product. Deletions, on the other hand, occur when nucleotides are removed, leading to a disruption in the genetic code and often resulting in a non-functional protein.
Point mutations can have various effects, depending on the location and type of mutation. They can result in silent mutations that do not alter the amino acid sequence, missense mutations where a different amino acid is incorporated, or nonsense mutations where the translation process is prematurely terminated. Point mutations can lead to phenotypic changes, causing genetic diseases, or they can be neutral, having no apparent effect on the organism's traits or health.
Understanding point mutations is essential in the field of genetics as they play a crucial role in evolutionary processes, genetic diversity, and disease development. Researchers often study these mutations to gain insights into the functions and mechanisms of genes, as well as to develop diagnostic tools and potential treatments for genetic disorders.
Common Misspellings for POINT MUTATION
- ooint mutation
- loint mutation
- -oint mutation
- 0oint mutation
- piint mutation
- pkint mutation
- plint mutation
- ppint mutation
- p0int mutation
- p9int mutation
- pount mutation
- pojnt mutation
- poknt mutation
- poont mutation
- po9nt mutation
- po8nt mutation
- poibt mutation
- poimt mutation
- poijt mutation
Etymology of POINT MUTATION
The word "point mutation" is composed of two elements: "point" and "mutation".
- The term "point" comes from the Latin word "punctum", meaning "a small dot" or "a point". It was first used in English in the 14th century and has since been used to refer to a small, specific position or location.
- The word "mutation" is derived from the Latin word "mutare", meaning "to change" or "to alter". It was initially used in English in the 14th century to describe a significant change or alteration in nature.
Therefore, "point mutation" implies a specific and localized alteration or change in the genetic material at a particular position or point on the DNA sequence.
Similar spelling word for POINT MUTATION
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