Question

"If the original DNA strand was GATTACA, which of the following would be considered a mutation (check all that apply)

A. GATTTACA
B. GATTACA
C. GATACA
D. GATTATA"

Answer 1

A mutation in a DNA sequence represents any change from the original sequence. Among the given options, GATTTACA and GATACA are considered mutations, representing insertion and deletion mutations respectively. Other types of mutations include substitution mutations and more complex rearrangements.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question relates to identifying mutations in a DNA sequence. If the original DNA strand was GATTACA, a mutation would be any change in this sequence. Here are the evaluations of the given options:

• A. GATTTACA - This sequence contains an extra 'T', which is an insertion mutation.
• B. GATTACA - This sequence is identical to the original and therefore is not a mutation.
• C. GATACA - Here, a 'T' is missing from the original sequence, indicating a deletion mutation.
• D. GATTATA - In this sequence, the last 'C' is replaced by a 'T', which is a substitution mutation.

Mutations can occur due to various factors, including exposure to UV light or spontaneous errors during DNA replication. These mutations can have a range of effects, from benign to seriously harmful, depending on their nature and location within the genome.