Final answer:
There are three types of mutations: point mutations, frameshift mutations, and chromosomal alterations. Point mutations involve changes in single nucleotides of the DNA sequence. Frameshift mutations involve the insertion or deletion of nucleotides, shifting the reading frame. Chromosomal alterations involve changes in the structure or number of chromosomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are three types of mutations: point mutations, frameshift mutations, and chromosomal alterations. Point mutations occur when a single nucleotide in the DNA sequence is changed. This can result in three different outcomes: silent mutations, missense mutations, and nonsense mutations. Frameshift mutations occur when nucleotides are either inserted or deleted in the DNA sequence, shifting the reading frame. Chromosomal alterations involve changes in the structure or number of chromosomes, such as deletions, duplications, and inversions.
These mutations can affect the body in different ways. Point mutations can lead to changes in protein structure and function, which can potentially cause genetic diseases. Frameshift mutations can completely alter the amino acid sequence of a protein, leading to non-functional or unstable proteins. Chromosomal alterations can disrupt the normal gene dosage or gene expression, which can result in developmental disorders or cancer.