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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes a frameshift mutation in the context of organic chemistry?
A
A mutation that changes a single nucleotide base, leading to a different amino acid.
B
A mutation that involves the duplication of a segment of DNA, increasing the number of copies of a gene.
C
A mutation that results from the insertion or deletion of nucleotides, altering the reading frame of the genetic sequence.
D
A mutation that occurs due to the substitution of one nucleotide for another without changing the reading frame.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of a frameshift mutation: In genetics, a frameshift mutation occurs when nucleotides are inserted or deleted from the DNA sequence, which alters the reading frame of the sequence. This can lead to significant changes in the resulting protein.
Identify the impact of frameshift mutations: Since the genetic code is read in sets of three nucleotides (codons), adding or removing nucleotides shifts the grouping of these codons, potentially changing every amino acid downstream from the mutation.
Differentiate frameshift mutations from other types: Unlike point mutations, which involve a single nucleotide change, frameshift mutations affect the entire sequence downstream, often leading to nonfunctional proteins.
Consider the options provided: Evaluate each option based on the definition of frameshift mutation. The correct description involves insertion or deletion of nucleotides, altering the reading frame.
Select the correct answer: Based on the understanding of frameshift mutations, choose the option that describes the insertion or deletion of nucleotides, which is the third option provided.