Suppressor mutation

Suppressor Mutation

A Suppressor Mutation (pronunciation: suh-preh-sor myoo-tey-shuhn) is a genetic mutation that reverses the effect of a previously occurring mutation in a process known as suppression.

Etymology

The term "Suppressor Mutation" is derived from the English words "Suppressor", meaning to stop or hinder, and "Mutation", which refers to a change in the genetic sequence.

Definition

A Suppressor Mutation is a type of genetic mutation that counteracts the effect of an earlier mutation in a gene. This can occur through various mechanisms, such as by changing a base pair in the DNA sequence to restore the original or a similar function of the gene.

Types of Suppressor Mutations

There are two main types of Suppressor Mutations:

1. Intragenic suppressor mutation: This occurs within the same gene as the original mutation. It usually involves a second mutation that restores the function of the gene.

2. Intergenic suppressor mutation: This occurs in a different gene from the original mutation. The second mutation compensates for the loss of function caused by the first mutation.

Related Terms

Mutation: A change in the DNA sequence that makes up a gene.
Gene: A segment of DNA that codes for a specific protein or set of proteins.
DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, the molecule that carries genetic information in all living organisms.
Base Pair: Two chemical bases bonded to each other forming a "rung of the DNA ladder."
Suppression: The process by which a suppressor mutation counteracts the effect of an earlier mutation.