Question

Identify how mutations in genes and chromosomes can result from errors in damage by mutagens (physical, including UV radiation, ionizing radiation, and heat and chemical).

Options:
A) Mutations caused by mutagens only affect chromosomes, not genes.
B) Mutations resulting from mutagenic damage are limited to physical mutagens.
C) Mutations in genes and chromosomes can result from damage by mutagens, including physical and chemical agents.
D) Damage by mutagens has no correlation with mutations in genes and chromosomes.

Answer 1

Mutations in genes and chromosomes can occur due to both physical and chemical mutagens, which can alter the structure of DNA, leading to potential diseases or genetic disorders if not properly repaired.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mutations in genes and chromosomes can result from damage by various mutagens, which include both physical agents like UV radiation, ionizing radiation, and heat, as well as chemical agents. Physical mutagens such as UV light can cause adjacent nucleotides to bond improperly, forming pyrimidine dimers that lead to structural changes in the DNA. Chemical mutagens, including base analogs and reactive chemicals, can modify DNA bases, ultimately causing mutations after several DNA replication cycles. It's important to note that cells have mechanisms like nucleotide excision repair to fix such damages; however, if these mechanisms fail, mutations can persist and may lead to diseases like cancer or heritable genetic disorders.