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Mutations in sex cells are more serious because they are heritable and affect the next generation. Remember, though, that mutations in somatic cells can cause cancer and tumors but are non- heritable.

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Q: Why are mutations more serious when they occure in a sex cell?
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Why is a gene mutation more serious what its at the beginning?

More serious than what? Mutations happen all the time and have done so.


When does crossing over occure?

prophase I


Do people usually have more mutations in their cells than animals do?

Since mutations are usually caused by radiation, I would say people have more mutations. A lot of what we use everyday causes radiation. Cell phones, computers, etc.


Which kind of mutation has the greater potential to affect the evolution of a population a mutation to a body cell or a mutation in an egg cell?

Mutations that occur during gametogenesis (formation of egg and sperm) are called germ-line mutations. They are more significant than somatic mutations (which occur in body cells) because they can be transmitted to the next generation whereas somatic mutations are not transmitted to the next generation.


What is a mutation and why are mutations more serious when they occur in a sex cell?

A gene is a hereditary unit consisting of a sequence of DNA that occupies a specific location on a chromosome and is transcribed into an RNA molecule that may function directly or be translated into an amino acid chain (protein). Genes undergo mutation when their DNA sequences change. Mutations in the body cells are not passed on but die with the person. The ones that occur in sex cells are passed on.


What effect can mutations have on virus?

Mutations usually make things function less well. Occasionally they provide an advantage. If the organism is a pathogen the mutation may make the organism more or less virulent.


Can people have a normal life if they have mutations?

Sure, you probably have several tens of thousands of mutations already and are likely accumulating a couple more mutations every single day you live.Many mutations are harmless and of those that are very harmful they usually cause death of that one cell in which they occurred then the cell is replaced with a normal one. If the mutated cell doesn't die the immune system may identify it as "bad" and kill it, then the cell is replaced with a normal one.Also sometimes a mutation in the sex cells (which won't affect that person at all, only their children) is a helpful improvement. Evolution can select such changes (and other ways the genes change) over following generations, thus possibly improving the population.It is not possible for a mutation to completely transform an individual into something different. Although mutations can cause cancer if they don't kill the cell and the immune system overlooks the "bad" cell, but to become cancer typically takes multiple mutations (not just one) and often decades for the one cell to divide enough to become a tumor.


Which is more likely to develop adaptation to a changing ecosystem?

A population with few mutations will have more room in there genes to do mutations


How are mutation and cancer related?

Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence of a cell's genes. These changes can occur for various reasons, including exposure to environmental factors, aging, errors during DNA replication, or inherited genetic mutations. When mutations affect genes that regulate cell growth, division, and repair, they can contribute to the development of cancer. Here's how mutations are related to cancer: Uncontrolled Cell Growth: Mutations in certain genes, known as oncogenes, can lead to the activation of proteins that promote cell growth. When these genes are mutated, they may signal cells to continuously divide and grow, contributing to the formation of tumours. Loss of Growth Regulation: Mutations in tumor suppressor genes can result in the loss of normal regulatory functions. Tumor suppressor genes normally inhibit cell division or promote programmed cell death (apoptosis) when necessary. Mutations in these genes can lead to uncontrolled cell growth. DNA Repair Deficiencies: DNA repair genes are responsible for fixing errors or damage in the DNA sequence. Mutations in these genes can result in an accumulation of genetic mistakes, increasing the likelihood of additional mutations and promoting cancer development. Genomic Instability: Mutations can contribute to genomic instability, where the DNA within cells becomes more prone to further mutations. This can create a cascade effect, leading to the accumulation of genetic changes that drive cancer progression. Inherited Mutations: Some individuals inherit specific mutations that predispose them to a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer. While these inherited mutations may not directly cause cancer, they increase susceptibility to the disease. Understanding the genetic basis of cancer has led to advancements in targeted therapies and precision medicine. Identifying specific mutations in cancer cells allows for the development of treatments that target the underlying genetic abnormalities, offering more effective and tailored approaches to cancer therapy. Research in genomics continues to play a crucial role in unraveling the complex relationship between mutations and cancer.


Can more than one mutation occur in a single organism?

Yes, mutations can occur all over at the same time. For example in a multicellular organism a gamma ray or x-ray photon passing through the organism can generate one or more mutations in every cell that the photon passes through. Another example mutagenic chemicals can produce many mutations in every chromosome.


How does the chromosomes in a nerve cell differ from those in a sperm cell?

The sperm cell is haploid (has half as many chromasomes as the diploid nerve cell)The sperm cell can contain more mutations (depending on the age of the man, this is the basis of anticipation)The sperm cell's chromasome has undergone recombination (I'm assuming you know what that is)


Are mutations more common in sperm cells or egg cells?

It depends on the age of the person. There are more mutations and defects in eggs as the woman ages. However, as men are constantly producing more sperm cells they will inevitably produce more cells that have mutations. The percentage of sperms cells that have mutations will increase as the man ages.