What is DNA mutation? DNA is short for deoxyribonucleic acid. It is the material that carries all the information about how a living thing will look and function. A mutation is a change in a DNA sequence. A Mutation occurs when a DNA gene is damaged or changed in such a way as to alter the genetic message carried by that gene. Mutations can result from DNA copying mistakes made during cell division, exposure to ionising radiation, exposure to chemicals called mutagens, or infection by viruses. Mutational effects can be beneficial, harmful, or neutral, depending on their context or location. Most non-neutral mutations are deleterious. Most mutations are not harmful, but some can be. A harmful mutation can result in a genetic disorder or even cancer. The mutation is important as the first step of evolution because it creates a new DNA sequence for a particular gene, creating a new allele. The ultimate source of all genetic variation is mutation.

Sreelakshmi Sethumadhavan

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