Mutagens can be classified into three main types: physical (e.g., radiation), chemical (e.g., certain chemicals like benzene), and biological (e.g., viruses).
Exposure to mutagens can lead to various genetic mutations such as point mutations, insertions, deletions, and chromosomal rearrangements.
Mutagenic agents are often used in research to study gene function by inducing specific mutations.
Some mutagens are also carcinogens, meaning they have the potential to cause cancer by inducing mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth.
DNA repair mechanisms exist in cells to correct damage caused by mutagens, but these systems are not always foolproof.
Review Questions
What are the three main types of mutagens and provide an example of each?
How do mutagens induce genetic mutations at the molecular level?
Explain how a mutagen can be both a carcinogen and a tool for genetic research.