Chapter 16.2, Problem 5CC

Summary Introduction

A change in the DNA sequence of the cell is known as a mutation. Mutations often occur in two ways such as spontaneous mutations (which arise occasionally) and induced mutations (which arise from the exposure of mutagens). The mutant (an organism containing altered or new genotype due to mutation) strain is used to study complex molecular mechanisms, for example, DNA replication, transcription, and endospore formation. A specific and sensitive screening technique is required to detect mutants and mutagens. Mutagens can be chemicals or physical factors that induce mutations.