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Depending on the type of mutation, this could be harmless, or it could be harmful and even lethal.

For example, a point mutation changes one base in a codon. Since most amino acids have more than one codon, this mutation may still code for the same amino acid. For example, both TTT and TTC codons code for the amino acid phenylalanine, so if TTT was mutated to TTC, the mutation would have no effect.


However, in sickle cell anemia, a life-threatening genetic disorder, is also caused by a point mutation, in which the codon CTC is mutated to CAC. The codon CTC codes for the amino acid glutamine, and CAC codes for the amino acid valine. This change in just one codon causes the hemoglobin molecule to have an altered structure, which causes the red blood cells carrying the mutated hemoglobin molecule to be stiff and have a concave (sickle) shape. The sickle-shaped cells clog blood vessels and do not transport oxygen effectively, which causes pain and damage to the organs, shortening the lifespan by about 30 years. A person must inherit the mutated gene from both parents in order to be affected.

Source: http://learn.genetics.Utah.edu/content/disorders/singlegene/sicklecell/


There are other types of mutations, such as frameshift mutations, and chromosomal mutations that can negatively impact the affected organism.


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Related Questions

What changes in a mutation?

hereditary instructions


What do you call a change in the hereditary instructions of an organism?

A change in the hereditary instructions of an organism is called a mutation. Mutations can occur randomly or be induced by factors such as UV radiation or chemicals, leading to variations in the organism's traits.


What are the forms of mutation?

== ==mutation means:change in a hereditary character


What does mutation?

mutation means: change in a hereditary character


What term is defined as a change in the DNA structure of a cell in which the instructions for making a particular protein are affected?

A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA structure of a cell in which the instructions for making a particular protein are affected. Mutations can lead to altered protein production, which may result in changes in cellular function or contribute to genetic disorders.


Mutations in body cells can be passed on to offspring of the affected individual?

No. As long as the mutation does not occur in the reproductive cells (sperms or ovum), it will not be pass on to the offspring.


A mutation is a change in a?

A mutation is a change in a DNA sequence that can result in alterations to the structure or function of a gene, potentially leading to different traits or characteristics in an organism.


What is changes in hereditary material called?

It is called a mutation.


Is sickle cell anemia a point mutation?

An example of point-mutation is sickle-cell anemia. Sickle-cell disease is hereditary.


What is the type of mutation that causes deafness?

that would be a hereditary thing not a gene mutaion


Sickle-cell anemia is an example of a point-mutation?

An example of point-mutation is sickle-cell anemia. Sickle-cell disease is hereditary.


How can a baby be born with out a hand?

hereditary or a mutation due to a mothers use of drugs and or alcohol.