FRAMESHIFT MUTATION Meaning and
Definition
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Frameshift mutation is a type of genetic mutation that involves the insertion or deletion of nucleotides in the DNA sequence of a gene. This mutation disrupts the normal reading frame during protein synthesis, leading to a change in the entire sequence of codons downstream of the mutation site. Unlike other types of mutations that may affect a single nucleotide or a few nucleotides, a frameshift mutation alters the reading frame of the genetic code, which can have significant consequences for protein structure and function.
When a frameshift mutation occurs, the entire sequence of nucleotides in the reading frame is shifted, causing a shift in the corresponding sequence of amino acids in the protein. As a result, the protein produced from the mutated gene is usually completely altered in its amino acid sequence, leading to the formation of a nonfunctional or partially functional protein.
Frameshift mutations can occur spontaneously or as a result of environmental factors, mutagen exposure, or errors during DNA replication. These mutations often have severe effects on the phenotype of an organism, as they can result in the production of abnormal proteins that fail to carry out their intended functions. Frameshift mutations can cause various genetic disorders and diseases, including some types of cancer.
In conclusion, frameshift mutation is a genetic mutation characterized by the insertion or deletion of nucleotides, which disrupts the normal reading frame and leads to significant changes in the downstream sequence of codons and, consequently, alterations in the structure and function of the resulting protein.
Common Misspellings for FRAMESHIFT MUTATION
- drameshift mutation
- crameshift mutation
- vrameshift mutation
- grameshift mutation
- trameshift mutation
- rrameshift mutation
- feameshift mutation
- fdameshift mutation
- ffameshift mutation
- ftameshift mutation
- f5ameshift mutation
- f4ameshift mutation
- frzmeshift mutation
- frsmeshift mutation
- frwmeshift mutation
- frqmeshift mutation
- franeshift mutation
- frakeshift mutation
- frajeshift mutation
- framwshift mutation
Etymology of FRAMESHIFT MUTATION
The word "frameshift" in "frameshift mutation" refers to a change in the reading frame of the genetic code during the translation of DNA into proteins. Here is a breakdown of the etymology of each component:
1. Frame: The word "frame" originated from the Old English word "fram" which means "shape, form, or framework". It refers to the structure or arrangement of something.
2. Shift: The word "shift" comes from the Old English word "sciftan" meaning "to divide or distribute". It refers to a change or movement in position or direction.
3. Mutation: The term "mutation" has Latin roots, deriving from the word "mutāre" which means "to change" or "to alter". It refers to a change in the DNA sequence that leads to variations in the genetic code.
