Question

Which of the following types of mutations is MOST likely to alter the encoded protein?A single nucleotide deletionA point mutation in the 2nd base of a codonA point mutation in the 1st base of a codonA point mutation in the 3rd base of a codon

Answer 1

A point mutation in the 1st base of a codon

Step-by-step explanation:

A point mutations are mutations of one base in the DNA sequence. The effects of point mutations might be harmful, beneficial or neutral.

Deletion mutations are frameshift mutation, because they change the reading frame and thus affect the sequence of amino acids produced. Usually, protein changes its structure and function and become useless.

Point mutations at 2nd base of codon are misssense mutations, meaning that the new amino acid is produced, but it can be amino acid with similar properties. That will not affect the function of the protein a lot.

3rd base of a codon are often silent mutations, which means that the sam amino acid is produced (multiple codons can code for the same amino acid).