What are Mutations?
Mutation is a genetic mistake caused by errors or changes in the DNA, genes or chromosomes. It is a change in DNA sequence and can alter one’s phenotype. A mutation that cannot be identified is called a spontaneous mutation, and a mutation that can be identified it is called an induced mutation. The factor that triggered the permanent mutation in cells is called a mutagen.
How does Mutation occur?
Once the gene has been damaged or changed the mRNA transcribed from that gene will now carry an altered message. The mRNA will then be translated into a polypeptide. This polypeptide however, will contain a different sequence of amino acids because of the altered mRNA. The function of the protein made by folding this polypeptide will probably be changed or lost. In subtle or very obvious ways, the phenotype of the organism carrying the mutation will be changed.