Mutation – DNA change

Change in the base sequence of DNA that can be passed on (inherited).

The mute (mutation) girl enjoyed base jumping (DNA base) but liked to change where she jumped from all the time.

NOTE:

Mutations produce genetic variation in organisms by creating new alleles.

Examples

Sickle cell anaemia is caused by a gene mutation to the gene responsible for producing red blood cells. People who have just one copy of the sickle cell allele have immunity to malaria, but if you inherit two copies of the sickle cell allele you will suffer from sickle cell anaemia.

Hypertrichosis, often called “werewolf syndrome”, is caused by mutations in the genes of chromosome 8.

Albinism is caused by a gene mutation which affects the ability to produce melanin, which in turn can affect eye colour, skin colour and hair colour.

The skin colour of corn snakes can be affected by mutations.