MUTANT GENE Meaning and
Definition
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A mutant gene refers to a genetic mutation or alteration that occurs in the DNA sequence of an organism, resulting in a change in the genetic material and functionality of a specific gene. It can arise spontaneously due to errors during DNA replication or through exposure to external factors such as radiation, chemicals, or viruses.
Mutant genes can lead to various genetic disorders, diseases, or abnormalities in an organism's phenotype, or observable traits. The mutation can affect the gene's expression, regulation, or code for an altered protein structure. Depending on the nature of the mutation, it can have detrimental effects, causing loss of function or decreased efficiency of the gene. Alternatively, mutant genes can also produce novel traits or increased functionality, contributing to the genetic diversity of a population and offering potential advantages.
Identifying and studying mutant genes is crucial in understanding the genetic basis of diseases, evolution, and development. Scientists often utilize various techniques, including gene sequencing, genetic mapping, and gene editing technologies, to analyze and manipulate these genes. The study of mutant genes can provide insights into biological processes, offer potential targets for therapeutic interventions, and aid in selective breeding or genetic engineering efforts to enhance desirable traits in organisms or develop disease-resistant strains.
Overall, the concept of mutant genes denotes genetic variations that result from alterations in the DNA sequence, causing variations in the expression or function of specific genes, which have significant consequences for an organism's phenotype and overall biology.
Common Misspellings for MUTANT GENE
- nutant gene
- kutant gene
- jutant gene
- mytant gene
- mhtant gene
- mjtant gene
- mitant gene
- m8tant gene
- m7tant gene
- murant gene
- mufant gene
- mugant gene
- muyant gene
- mu6ant gene
- mu5ant gene
- mutznt gene
- mutsnt gene
- mutwnt gene
- mutqnt gene
Etymology of MUTANT GENE
The word "mutant" comes from the Latin term "mutare", which means "to change". It entered the English language in the late 18th century, referring to things that had undergone a change or transformation. The word "gene" originated in the early 20th century from the Greek word "genos", meaning "race" or "origin". It was coined by Danish botanist and geneticist Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909 to describe the basic functional unit of heredity. Therefore, the term "mutant gene" combines "mutant", indicating a change or alteration, with "gene", denoting a hereditary unit responsible for specific traits or characteristics.
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