How do genetic mutations arise?
A genetic mutation is a lasting DNA sequence change caused by copying error or environmental damage.
Biological mechanism and regulation
Repair systems correct many errors, while some remain. Base substitutions, insertions, deletions, copy-number changes and rearrangements differ in effect.
Evidence, applications and limits
Germline mutations may be inherited, while somatic changes remain in a cell lineage. A mutation is not automatically harmful and requires clinical classification. No single molecule or measurement explains the whole system; cell type, timing, environment and feedback must be considered together.
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