Induced mutations

Definition

Induced mutations are changes in the DNA sequence caused by external agents such as chemicals or radiation. These mutations can alter gene function and potentially lead to various biological consequences, including diseases.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Induced mutations are often caused by mutagens like UV light, X-rays, and certain chemicals.
2. Chemical mutagens can include substances like benzene, formaldehyde, and aflatoxin.
3. Induced mutations can result in point mutations, insertions, deletions, or chromosomal rearrangements.
4. Some induced mutations can be repaired by cellular mechanisms such as nucleotide excision repair or base excision repair.
5. Exposure to high levels of mutagens increases the risk of cancer due to the accumulation of induced mutations in oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes.

Review Questions

• What are some common external agents that cause induced mutations?
• How do chemical mutagens affect the DNA sequence?
• What types of DNA damage repair mechanisms exist for fixing induced mutations?

Related terms

Mutagen: An agent that induces genetic mutation by altering DNA structure.

Nucleotide Excision Repair (NER): A DNA repair mechanism that removes bulky lesions from the DNA strand.

Point Mutation: A type of mutation where a single nucleotide base is changed, inserted, or deleted.