1. Mutations

2. What is a Mutation? A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence.
Genetic mutations, which affect reproductive cells, can be passed on to offspring.
Somatic mutations, which affect other cells, cannot be passed on.

3. What Causes Mutations?
Chemicals, including carcinogens, such as those found in cigarette smoke)
Mistakes during DNA replication.
Radiation, including:
ultraviolet light – as from the sun
X-rays

4. What Causes Mutations?
DNA can be damaged by radiation or certain chemicals. Errors in the DNA replication process can also cause mutations.

5. Types of Mutations Point Frameshift Substitution Insertion (Addition)
Deletion

6. Point Mutation
A single base pair is changed at a certain point in the DNA or RNA sequence

7. Substitution
A type of point mutation where one base is replaced by another base
Example: changing ATCG to ATAG.

8. Frameshift Mutation
A base is removed or inserted which causes the rest of the DNA or RNA bases to move

9. Insertion (Addition)
One or more bases are added into the DNA or RNA sequence.
Example: changing ATCG to ATGCG.

10. Deletion One or more bases are removed from the DNA or RNA sequence.
Example: changing ATCG to ACG.