DNA

Changes in Genes
MUTATIONS
Changes in Genes
• Mutations Changes in
the number, type, or
order of bases on a
piece of DNA are known
as mutations.

• Mutations may be
caused by the deletion,
insertion, or substitution
of a base.
Changes in Genes, continued

• Do Mutations Matter? Fortunately cells make

proteins that detect and repair errors in DNA.

• Sometimes errors are not repaired. There are three

possible consequences to changes in DNA:an
improved trait,no change, or a harmful trait.

• Mutations in the sex cells may be passed to the

next generation.
Changes in Genes, continued
• How Do Mutations Happen? Mutations happen
regularly because of random errors when DNA is
copied.

• Radiation and certain chemicals can also damage

DNA. Any physical or chemical agent that can
cause a mutation in DNA is called a mutagen.
An Example of Substitution
• A mutation, such as a substitution, can be harmful
because it may cause a gene to produce the wrong
protein.

• A simple change in an amino acid can cause a

disease such as sickle cell anemia, as shown on
the next slide.
Uses of Genetic Knowledge
• Genetic Engineering Scientists can manipulate
individual genes within organisms. This kind of
manipulation is called genetic engineering.

• Genes can be transferred from one organism to

another to create products such as drugs, foods, or
fabrics.

• Some scientists worry about the dangers of

creating genetically engineered organisms.
Uses of Genetic Knowledge, continued
• Genetic Identification Your DNA is unique, so it
can be used like a fingerprint to identify you.
individual’s DNA.

• DNA samples can be used to identify family

relations or hereditary diseases.

• Individuals with identical DNA are called clones.

Scientists have cloned several types of mammals,
but this practice is still being debated.