* DNA Sequence: Mutations alter the order of nucleotides (A, T, C, G) that make up a gene.
* Protein: Genes contain instructions for building proteins. A mutation can change the amino acid sequence of the protein, leading to:
* No change: Some mutations have no effect on the protein due to the redundancy of the genetic code.
* Altered protein: The mutation might change the protein's structure or function.
* Non-functional protein: The mutation might prevent the protein from being made or make it completely inactive.
Key Points:
* Mutations are the raw material for evolution.
* Most mutations are neutral or slightly harmful.
* Some mutations can be beneficial, providing an advantage in certain environments.
Let me know if you'd like to explore specific types of mutations or their effects in more detail!
