Chapter 24, Problem 94A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The possible consequences of an error in the DNA sequence are to be explained.

Concept introduction: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) provides the cell with the instructions necessary to make proteins. The cells are instructed to make distinct proteins based on the DNA sequences that they contain.

Answer to Problem 94A

The consequences of an error in the DNA sequence are as follows:

1. The DNA sequence makes a useless or harmful sequence of amino acids. This mutation can cause the production of a wrong protein or stop the synthesis process. This mutation is bad for organisms.
2. The DNA sequence creates a more effective protein than the previous form, and this mutation can be advantageous to the survival of the organism affected.

Explanation of Solution

Changes in the DNA sequence code are called gene mutations, and in this case, the letters in base triplets that specify a certain amino acid are changed. This type of error directly impacts the synthesis of proteins and can lead to two different consequences.

The two possible consequences of an error in the DNA sequence are as follows:

1. The DNA sequence generates an ineffective or harmful amino acid sequence; this mutation can lead to the generation of a defective protein or an interrupted synthesis in which no protein is created. This mutation negatively impacts organisms.
2. This DNA sequence creates a protein that is more effective than the prior form, and this mutation can be advantageous to the survival of the affected organism.

Conclusion

The consequences of an error in the DNA sequence are as follows:

1. The DNA sequence makes a useless or harmful sequence of amino acids. This mutation can cause the production of a wrong protein or stop the synthesis process. This mutation is bad for organisms.
2. The DNA sequence creates a more effective protein than the previous form, and this mutation can be advantageous to the survival of the organism affected.