Frameshift mutation

Frameshift mutation is a type of genetic mutation involving the insertion or deletion of a nucleotide in which the number of deleted base pairs is not divisible by three.

Overview

In DNA sequence, the genetic information is encoded in the sequence of nucleotides. A frameshift mutation alters the reading frame, or the grouping of the nucleotides into codons. This can lead to the production of an entirely different protein from what was originally encoded in the DNA sequence.

Causes

Frameshift mutations can be caused by the addition or loss of nucleotides during DNA replication. They can also occur as a result of exposure to certain chemicals or radiation.

Effects

The effects of frameshift mutations can be severe. They can lead to the production of a nonfunctional protein or even a protein with a completely different function. This can result in a variety of genetic disorders, including cancer and certain genetic diseases.

Examples

Some examples of diseases caused by frameshift mutations include Cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, and Crohn's disease.

See also

• Point mutation
• Insertion (genetics)
• Deletion (genetics)