Multiple Choice
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is damaging to cells because it __________.
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15. Gene Expression
Mutations
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A particular mutation had no effect on the polypeptide encoded by a gene. This mutation probably involves __________.
A
the deletion of one nucleotide
B
a missense mutation
C
the insertion of one nucleotide
D
a silent or neutral mutation
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that a mutation is a change in the DNA sequence of a gene. Mutations can affect the polypeptide encoded by a gene in various ways.
Recognize that a silent mutation is a type of mutation where the change in the DNA sequence does not alter the amino acid sequence of the polypeptide. This is possible due to the redundancy in the genetic code.
Recall that the genetic code is composed of codons, which are sequences of three nucleotides that correspond to specific amino acids. Some amino acids are encoded by multiple codons.
Consider that a silent mutation typically involves a change in one nucleotide that results in a codon that still codes for the same amino acid, thus having no effect on the polypeptide.
Conclude that since the mutation had no effect on the polypeptide, it is likely a silent mutation, as opposed to a deletion or insertion of nucleotides, which would likely cause a frameshift and alter the polypeptide.
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