BRAINCAKECauses of mutations
Mutations occur spontaneously, usually during DNA replication. Mutagens are chemical, physical or biological agents that can cause or increase the rate of mutations. Ionising radiation such as X-rays can break DNA strands. Mutations may occur during the repair process.
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Key terms in this lesson
- mutation
- A random change in the base sequence of DNA (a gene mutation) or in the structure or number of chromosomes (a chromosome mutation).
More in Genetics and Variation
- Mutations
- Effects of Mutations
- Change in Protein Function
- Sickle-cell Anaemia
- Chromosome Mutations
- Gene Regulation
- Controlling Transcription
- Lac Operon
All 36 lessons in Genetics and Variation · All AQA A-level Biology topics