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 |
Definition | Refers to a change in the nucleotide sequence in a particular gene | Refers to a change in the nucleotide sequence of a chromosomal segment, which includes several genes |
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 |
Number of genes affected | Only one gene is affected | Several genes may be affected |
Magnitude of change | Relatively low | Can be significant and even lethal |
Nature of the mutation | Usually results in only a minor structural alteration | May result in structural or numerical alterations in the whole DNA strand |
Ability to correct the mutation | Can be corrected sometimes | Correcting the mutation can be complicated and difficult |
Diseases Caused |