What is a genetic mutation?

A mutation is a random change in the amount of DNA or sequence of DNA nucleotides within a cell. DNA is a double helix with two polynucleotide strands joined by hydrogen bonds between complementary base pairs. This structure is usually very stable, but mutations can randomly occur during DNA replication and also in the presence of mutagens (e.g. ionising radiation). Genetic mutations involve insertions, deletions, substitutions, inversions, changes in the number of repeat units, deamination (e.g. cytosine can be deaminated to form uracil) or depurination (resulting in the conversion of a nucleotide into a sugar-phosphate residue). 

Answered by Krupa R. Biology tutor

6088 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is selective reabsorption acheived in the kidneys?


How can donepezil improve communication between nerve cells?


Explain how polymerase chain reaction is used in DNA fingerprinting


How is the DNA prepared for it to be replicated?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences