Insertions and deletions in the genetic code are also called ___________ mutations.

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Understand the types of mutations in genetics: point mutations, insertions, deletions, and frameshift mutations.

Recall that insertions and deletions involve adding or removing nucleotides from the DNA sequence.

Recognize that when insertions or deletions are not in multiples of three nucleotides, they shift the reading frame of the genetic code.

Identify that this shift in the reading frame is specifically called a frameshift mutation.

Conclude that insertions and deletions in the genetic code are also called frameshift mutations.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Types of Genetic Mutations

Genetic mutations are changes in the DNA sequence and include substitutions, insertions, and deletions. Insertions add extra nucleotides, while deletions remove them, both potentially altering the genetic code significantly.

Frameshift Mutations

Insertions and deletions that are not in multiples of three nucleotides cause frameshift mutations. These shift the reading frame of the genetic code, often resulting in completely different and nonfunctional proteins.

Impact of Mutations on Protein Synthesis

Mutations can affect protein synthesis by changing the mRNA sequence, which alters the amino acid sequence during translation. Frameshift mutations typically lead to premature stop codons or dysfunctional proteins, impacting cellular function.

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