NULL MUTATION Meaning and
Definition
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A null mutation refers to a specific type of genetic mutation that completely eliminates the function or production of a particular gene. This type of mutation results in the complete absence or loss of the gene's normal protein product, leading to a loss-of-function phenotype.
Null mutations are typically caused by changes in the DNA sequence, such as base pair deletions, insertions, or substitutions, that disrupt the reading frame and prevent the synthesis of a functional protein. Alternatively, null mutations can also occur due to large chromosomal rearrangements or deletions that encompass the entire gene.
The consequence of a null mutation varies depending on the function of the affected gene. In some cases, the absence of the gene product may have no apparent effect on the organism's phenotype, especially if the gene's function is redundant or can be compensated for by other genes. However, null mutations can also lead to significant physiological or developmental abnormalities, depending on the criticality of the gene's function.
Null mutations are crucial tools in genetic research as they allow scientists to investigate the function of specific genes by studying the consequences of their absence. By observing the phenotypic changes resulting from a null mutation, researchers can gain insights into the gene's normal function and its role in various biological processes.
Common Misspellings for NULL MUTATION
- bull mutation
- mull mutation
- jull mutation
- hull mutation
- nyll mutation
- nhll mutation
- njll mutation
- nill mutation
- n8ll mutation
- n7ll mutation
- nukl mutation
- nupl mutation
- nuol mutation
- nulk mutation
- nulp mutation
- nulo mutation
- null nutation
- null kutation
- null jutation
- null mytation
Etymology of NULL MUTATION
The etymology of the word "null mutation" can be broken down as follows:
1. Null: The word "null" comes from the Latin word "nullus", meaning "none" or "no". It has been used in English since the mid-17th century to indicate absence or lack.
2. Mutation: The word "mutation" comes from the Latin word "mutare", meaning "to change". It has been used in English since the early 18th century to refer to a permanent change in the genetic material (DNA) of an organism, leading to variations in traits or characteristics.
The term "null mutation" is used in genetics to describe a specific type of genetic mutation where there is a complete loss or absence of function in a gene. It indicates that the mutated gene no longer produces a functional protein or has any discernible effect, leading to a null or zero phenotype.
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