MUTAGENIC Meaning and
Definition
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The term "mutagenic" refers to a substance or agent that has the ability to induce genetic mutations or changes in the DNA sequence of living organisms. It is derived from the word "mutagen," which is derived from the Latin word "mutare," meaning "to change," and the suffix "-gen," which indicates "producing" or "causing."
In genetics, a mutation refers to any alteration or modification in the genetic material, particularly in the sequence of nucleotides in DNA. Mutations can be caused by a variety of factors, including exposure to mutagens. Mutagens can be physical or chemical agents that have the potential to cause changes in DNA. These changes can range from single nucleotide substitutions to large-scale genomic rearrangements.
The mutagenic effect of a substance can lead to various outcomes, including harmful or beneficial effects. While some mutations might have no evident impact or be neutral, others can result in altered gene products, disrupted cellular processes, or abnormal phenotypes. The consequences of mutagenesis can be seen in the transmission of genetic disorders and diseases, as well as the development of cancer.
The study of mutagens and mutagenesis is crucial in understanding the process of evolution, as mutations provide the raw material for genetic diversity upon which natural selection can act. Consequently, scientists and researchers continue to explore and evaluate mutagenic substances to better comprehend their potential impact on genetic stability and health.
Common Misspellings for MUTAGENIC
- nutagenic
- kutagenic
- jutagenic
- mytagenic
- mhtagenic
- mjtagenic
- mitagenic
- m8tagenic
- m7tagenic
- muragenic
- mufagenic
- mugagenic
- muyagenic
- mu6agenic
- mu5agenic
- mutzgenic
- mutsgenic
- mutwgenic
- mutqgenic
- metageneitc
- Autoginic
- mitogenic
- mutatenig
Etymology of MUTAGENIC
The word "mutagenic" derives from the combination of two words: "mutate" and "genic".
The term "mutate" comes from the Latin word "mutare", which means "to change" or "to alter". It was first used in English as a verb in the mid-19th century, referring to the act of changing or modifying something.
The suffix "-genic" is derived from the Greek word "genēs", meaning "producing" or "giving birth". In English, it is used to indicate "causing" or "relating to", typically in the context of genetics or the production of something.
Combining "mutate" and "-genic" creates "mutagenic", which refers to something that has the ability to cause or induce mutations in genetic material, such as DNA.
Similar spelling words for MUTAGENIC
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