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What are the differences between gene mutation and chromosome mutation?
Posted January 16, 2023
Gene mutation and chromosome mutation are two types of abnormalities that occur in an organism’s genome. There are several significant differences between the two types of mutations.
Basis of Differentiation |
Gene mutation |
Chromosome mutation |
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Definition |
Refers to a change in the nucleotide sequence in a particular gene
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Refers to a change in the nucleotide sequence of a chromosomal segment, which includes several genes |
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Cause |
May be caused by errors in DNA replication or by exposure to mutagens such as chemicals or radiation |
Caused by errors in crossing over during meiosis |
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Number of genes affected |
Only one gene is affected
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Several genes may be affected |
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Magnitude of change |
Relatively low |
Can be significant and even lethal |
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Nature of the mutation |
Usually results in only a minor structural alteration |
May result in structural or numerical alterations in the whole DNA strand |
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Ability to correct the mutation |
Can be corrected sometimes |
Correcting the mutation can be complicated and difficult |
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Diseases Caused |
- Cystic fibrosis - Cancers - Hemophilia - Sickle cell anemia |
- Down syndrome - Turner syndrome - Klinefelter syndrome |
Chromosomal instability, aneuploidy, and gene mutations in human sporadic colorectal adenomas