Question

Mutations occur when segments of DNA are accidentally rearranged through the deletion, insertion, or substitution of one or more nucleotides. The diagram below shows how a nucleotide sequence can be changed by these mutations. If one or more of these mutations occurs in the genes of reproductive cells, how might the traits of offspring be affected?

Answer 1

Answer:

-they may not be affected at all

-they may receive a benefit

-they may be harmed

Explanation:

The mutation is a sudden change that occurs at random in the genetic material and that can be transmitted to the descendants. These mutations can occur by exclusion, insertion or replacement of one or more nucleotides that may or may not have some consequences on the life of the affected offspring.

Mutations can occur in any cell in the body, whether they are somatic cells (skin, liver, heart cells, etc.) or reproductive cells (gametes). When the mutation occurs in any somatic cell, we say that there was a somatic mutation. This type of mutation is not important in evolution, as it will not be transmitted to descendants. If the mutation occurs in any reproductive cell (sperm or egg) we say that there was a germline mutation. In this type of mutation, the DNA change will be passed on to the descendants. However, when the mutation occurs in the reproductive cells, the offspring may not be affected, it may have a disadvantageous feature, or an advantageous feature.

Answer 2

If a mutation occurs in the genes of reproductive cells (gametes) that mutation is termed a germinal mutation. Germinal mutations usually are not expressed in the individual containing the mutation, but gametes that carry the mutation will pass it on to the offspring. So, we say that the germinal mutations are hereditary mutations, inherited from a parent and present in every somatic and germline cell in the offspring.