gene mutation
Noun: A change in the nucleotide sequence within a single gene. This is a specific type of mutation resulting from an alteration, such as a substitution, insertion, or deletion, of one or more nucleotides that constitute the gene. It is an intramolecular reorganization, meaning the change occurs within the structure of the gene itself.
This term is used in the field of genetics and biology to describe a fundamental type of genetic alteration. - It is typically discussed in scientific, medical, and educational contexts. - It is often contrasted with larger-scale chromosomal mutations.
- The disease is caused by a gene mutation that affects protein production.
- Researchers are studying the specific gene mutation responsible for the trait.
- A single gene mutation can sometimes have significant effects on an organism.
- Point mutation: A common type of gene mutation involving a change in a single nucleotide pair.
- A point mutation is a specific category of gene mutation.
- Germline gene mutation: A mutation that occurs in reproductive cells and can be passed to offspring.
- The inherited condition was traced to a germline gene mutation.
- Mutagen (noun): An agent, such as radiation or a chemical substance, that causes genetic mutation.
- Mutate (verb): To undergo or cause to undergo mutation.
- Mutant (noun/adjective): (An organism or gene) resulting from or showing the effect of mutation.
- Point mutation (a specific, common type of gene mutation)
- Genetic alteration (a broader term that can include gene mutations)
This term refers specifically to mutations at the molecular level within the gene's sequence. It does not refer to changes involving larger segments of chromosomes, such as deletions, duplications, or translocations of entire gene clusters, which are classified as chromosomal mutations. The focus is on the internal structure of the gene.
- (genetics) a mutation due to an intramolecular reorganization of a gene