Question

When comparing missense mutations with an insertion error, which would you predict to be most problematic for cell processes?

A) Missense mutations
B) Insertion error
C) They are equally problematic
D) Neither is problematic for cell processes

Answer 1

Insertion errors generally cause more issues than missense mutations because they often result in frameshift mutations, which usually produce nonfunctional proteins, whereas missense mutations may or may not significantly affect protein function.

Step-by-step explanation:

When comparing missense mutations with an insertion error, it is generally predicted that insertion errors would be more problematic for cell processes. An insertion error often results in a frameshift mutation, which can change every amino acid that follows the point of mutation, leading to the production of a nonfunctional protein. In contrast, a missense mutation, while it can also be harmful by changing a single amino acid in a protein, may not always result in a loss of function depending on the chemistry and location of the new amino acid within the protein. However, both types of mutations have the potential to produce defective proteins, and their impact can vary on a case-by-case basis.