What is the difference between mutagenic and teratogenic substance?

Answer 1

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A teratogen is an exogenous substance that interferes with normal development of the foetus. A mutagen, on the other hand, directly affects and disrupts DNA by causing an increase in the rate of change in genes. These mutations can be passed along as the cell reproduces, sometimes leading to defective cells or cancer. Some agents, such as ionizing radiation, are teratogens and mutagens; ionizing radiation can cause defects either in development or it can damage DNA directly. Examples of mutagens include certain biological and chemical agents (cigarette smoke) as well exposure to ultraviolet light or ionizing radiation. Examples of teratogens include alcohol, rubella virus, cytomegalovirus and hyperthermia.

So, a foetus that has developmental abnormalities due to a teratogenic substance has normal genes, but the development was disrupted and altered by the presence of the teratogen. A foetus that was exposed to a mutagenic substance has genetic abnormalities.

Answer 2

Mutagenic substances can cause changes in the DNA that can lead to genetic mutations, while teratogenic substances can disrupt the development of an embryo or fetus, leading to birth defects. Mutagenic substances primarily affect genetic material, while teratogenic substances primarily affect the development of the embryo or fetus.