Mutations in DNA can have big effects on how our cells work. Let’s break down how these changes can impact two important processes: replication and transcription.
Types of Mutations:
There are different kinds of mutations. These include point mutations, insertions, and deletions.
For example, a point mutation could change one building block called adenine (A) to another one called cytosine (C).
Consequences:
When cells replicate their DNA, they use an enzyme called polymerase. If this enzyme finds a mutated base, it might make a mistake and pair it incorrectly.
This can lead to distorted DNA, and if the mistake isn't fixed, it could cause permanent mutations.
Effect on RNA Synthesis:
Mutations can also affect transcription, which is the process of making RNA from DNA.
If there’s a mutation in an important region of a gene called the promoter, RNA polymerase might have trouble attaching.
For example, if the mutation happens in a part called the TATA box, it could stop the transcription from starting.
Altered Protein Function:
Sometimes, mutations change the actual code that tells cells how to make proteins. If that happens, the message sent to make a protein might be wrong.
This could lead to problems like sickle cell anemia, where just one small change in the DNA affects the shape of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells.
In short, mutations can mess up both the replication and transcription processes. This can change how cells act and affect overall health.
Mutations in DNA can have big effects on how our cells work. Let’s break down how these changes can impact two important processes: replication and transcription.
Types of Mutations:
There are different kinds of mutations. These include point mutations, insertions, and deletions.
For example, a point mutation could change one building block called adenine (A) to another one called cytosine (C).
Consequences:
When cells replicate their DNA, they use an enzyme called polymerase. If this enzyme finds a mutated base, it might make a mistake and pair it incorrectly.
This can lead to distorted DNA, and if the mistake isn't fixed, it could cause permanent mutations.
Effect on RNA Synthesis:
Mutations can also affect transcription, which is the process of making RNA from DNA.
If there’s a mutation in an important region of a gene called the promoter, RNA polymerase might have trouble attaching.
For example, if the mutation happens in a part called the TATA box, it could stop the transcription from starting.
Altered Protein Function:
Sometimes, mutations change the actual code that tells cells how to make proteins. If that happens, the message sent to make a protein might be wrong.
This could lead to problems like sickle cell anemia, where just one small change in the DNA affects the shape of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells.
In short, mutations can mess up both the replication and transcription processes. This can change how cells act and affect overall health.