ABC - DEF - GHI - JKL - MNO - PQRS - TUV - WXYZ Mutation
Similar term(s): gene mutation, genetic mutation, chromosomal mutation.
Definition:
Any permanent change in the DNA of a cell. Mutations may be caused by mistakes
during cell division, or they may be caused by exposure to DNA-damaging agents
in the environment. Mutations can be harmful, beneficial, or have no effect. If
they occur in cells that make eggs or sperm, they can be inherited; if mutations
occur in other types of cells, they are not inherited. Certain mutations may
lead to cancer or other diseases.
Source & ©:
NCI
NCI cancer.gov dictionary
Related words: Cell - Chromosome - Chromosome abnormalities - DNA - Genes - Genotoxic - Mutagen
ABC - DEF - GHI - JKL - MNO - PQRS - TUV - WXYZ | 
