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glossary

Mutation

Image of three types of mutations in DNA. A DNA that has had its initial blue base changed to a yellow base represents base-substitution mutations. The DNA that has had its initial blue base changed to a red cross represents a deletion mutation. The DNA that has had its initial blue base changed to two blue bases represents an insertion mutation. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0

A change from one genetic letter (nucleotide) to another. Variation in DNA sequence gives rise to the incredible diversity of species in the world, and even occurs between different organisms of the same species. While some mutations have no consequence at all, certain mutations can directly cause disease. Mutations may be caused by DNA-damaging agents such as UV light or may arise from errors that occur when DNA is copied by cellular enzymes. They can also be made deliberately via genome engineering methods.

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