Mutant
Mutant
Mutant (/ˈmjuːtənt/; from Latin mutare, meaning "to change") is a term used in genetics to refer to an organism or a new genetic character arising or resulting from an instance of mutation, which is generally an alteration of the DNA sequence of the genome or chromosome of an organism.
Etymology
The term "mutant" is derived from the Latin word mutare, which means "to change". It was first used in the context of genetics in the early 20th century, when scientists began to understand the role of mutations in the process of evolution.
Definition
In genetics, a mutant is an individual, organism, or new genetic character, that has undergone a mutation. The mutation can occur in the DNA sequence of the genome or chromosome of an organism, leading to a change in the organism's characteristics. This change can be beneficial, harmful, or neutral to the organism.
Related Terms
- Mutation: A change in the DNA sequence that affects genetic information.
- Genome: The complete set of genes or genetic material present in a cell or organism.
- Chromosome: A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
- Evolution: The process by which different kinds of living organisms are thought to have developed and diversified from earlier forms during the history of the earth.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mutant
- Wikipedia's article - Mutant
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