What type of mutation could result from the deletion of a nucleotide in a sequence?

What type of mutation could result from the deletion of a nucleotide in a sequence?

• A. Substitution mutation
• B. Frameshift mutation
• C. Point mutation
• D. Silent mutation

Answer: (B)

The deletion of a nucleotide from a DNA sequence leads to a frameshift mutation because it alters the reading frame of the genetic code. Each set of three nucleotides (codon) corresponds to a specific amino acid in a protein. When one nucleotide is removed, all subsequent codons are shifted over by one nucleotide. This alteration can change every amino acid that follows the deletion, potentially leading to a completely different and often nonfunctional protein. In contrast, substitution mutations involve the replacement of one nucleotide with another, which may not necessarily disrupt the reading frame. Point mutations typically refer to a change in a single nucleotide and can include substitutions, but they do not encompass the broader impact of a frameshift. Silent mutations, on the other hand, are specific types of point mutations that do not change the amino acid sequence of a protein. Thus, the deletion of a nucleotide clearly aligns with the definition of a frameshift mutation, illustrating its significant impact on protein synthesis.

The deletion of a nucleotide from a DNA sequence leads to a frameshift mutation because it alters the reading frame of the genetic code. Each set of three nucleotides (codon) corresponds to a specific amino acid in a protein. When one nucleotide is removed, all subsequent codons are shifted over by one nucleotide. This alteration can change every amino acid that follows the deletion, potentially leading to a completely different and often nonfunctional protein.

In contrast, substitution mutations involve the replacement of one nucleotide with another, which may not necessarily disrupt the reading frame. Point mutations typically refer to a change in a single nucleotide and can include substitutions, but they do not encompass the broader impact of a frameshift. Silent mutations, on the other hand, are specific types of point mutations that do not change the amino acid sequence of a protein. Thus, the deletion of a nucleotide clearly aligns with the definition of a frameshift mutation, illustrating its significant impact on protein synthesis.