What is gene mutation?

A gene mutation refers to a change in the base sequence of a gene, which can affect how the gene functions. Genes are composed of sequences of DNA, and any alteration in this sequence can lead to changes in the production of proteins, ultimately influencing an organism's traits. Mutations can occur naturally during DNA replication or can be induced by environmental factors, such as radiation or chemicals. These changes can have various effects, ranging from no impact at all, to significant effects on an organism's phenotype, potentially leading to evolutionary changes over time. This understanding is fundamental in genetics, as it reveals how genetic diversity arises within populations and how some mutations can lead to adaptations to environmental changes.