Question

Which type of mutation affects the largest number of genes

Answer 1

The type of mutation that affects the largest number of genes is a chromosomal mutation, which can involve changes in large regions of DNA. These mutations contrast with point mutations which usually only affect a single gene.

Step-by-step explanation:

The type of mutation that affects the largest number of genes is a chromosomal mutation. Chromosomal mutations can lead to large-scale changes, potentially affecting many genes at once. Types of chromosomal mutations include gain or loss of entire chromosomes, and mutations affecting a single DNA nucleotide.

Point mutations, including deletions and insertions, are small-scale mutations that can happen within a gene's promoter or coding sequence, affecting just one or a few genes. In contrast, mutations involving chromosomal rearrangements or changes in chromosome number can affect much larger regions of DNA and many genes. For instance, an entire chromosome may be duplicated, leading to a situation where all genes on that chromosome are affected. This can have more significant effects compared with mutations in individual genes, which might only affect the expression or function of a single protein.

It's important to note that while most mutations are harmful, causing issues like genetic disorders or cancer, they are also the basis for evolutionary change, introducing new genetic variants into populations.

Answer 2

The development and function of an organism is in large part controlled by genes. Mutations can lead to changes in the structure of an encoded protein or to a decrease or complete loss in its expression. Because a change in the DNA sequence affects all copies of the encoded protein, mutations can be particularly damaging to a cell or organism. In contrast, any alterations in the sequences of RNA or protein molecules that occur during their synthesis are less serious because many copies of each RNA and protein are synthesized.

Geneticists often distinguish between the genotype and phenotype of an organism. Strictly speaking, the entire set of genes carried by an individual is its genotype, whereas the function and physical appearance of an individual is referred to as its phenotype. However, the two terms commonly are used in a more restricted sense: genotype usually denotes whether an individual carries mutations in a single gene (or a small number of genes), and phenotype denotes the physical and functional consequences of that genotype. i hope this helps you