In Genetics,a mutant is a new genetic character arising from an instance of Mutation which is an alteration of the DNA sequence of a Gene or chromosome of an Organism The natural occurrence of genetic mutations is integral to the process of evolution. The study of mutants is an integral part of biology; by understanding the effect that a mutation in a gene.it is possible to establish the normal function of that gene.
Although not all mutations have a noticeable phenotypic effect, the common usage of the word "mutant" is generally a pejorative term only used for genetically or phenotypically noticeable mutations.Previously, people used the word "sport" to refer to abnormal specimens. The scientific usage is broader, referring to any organism differing from the Wild.
Mutants should not be confused with organisms born with developmental abnormalities which are caused by errors during morphogenesis. In a developmental abnormality, the DNA of the organism is unchanged and the abnormality cannot be passed on to progeny. conjoined twins are the result of developmental abnormalities.
Chemicals that cause developmental abnormalities are called teratogens; these may also cause mutations, but their effect on development is not related to mutations. Chemicals that induce mutations are called mutagens. Most mutagens are also considered to be carcinogens
Vimalathithyan RAJA
No comments:
Post a Comment