Final answer:
Mutations in mismatch repair genes cause hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mutations in mismatch repair genes cause hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer. These genes are involved in correcting errors that occur during DNA replication, helping to maintain the accuracy of the genetic code. When these genes are mutated, DNA replication errors can go unrepaired, leading to the accumulation of mutations and an increased risk of cancer.