Possible causes of genetic mutations in animals

Genes carry tons of information regarding structure and function of the animals. Almost everything in animals’ body is controlled by the genes. The skin color, the height and even the emotions are primarily controlled by the genes. Genes are situated in almost all the cells of animals. Each cell has a copy of genetic materials. Most of the genetic material is contained within the nuclei of the cells, but a very little amount is contained within the mitochondria.  These genes express proteins that finally control the function of those cells. Genes are the main control centre of a cell.

Any change in the structure of the genome is called a mutation. The genome is composed of nucleotides. Information is stored according to the nucleotide sequences. A single change in arrangement of these nucleotides results in a mutation. As a result, a defective protein is made instead of a correct one. The structure or the function of the cell is changed according to the gene involved. Most of these mutations give rise to abnormal animals, but some has contributed to the evolution of present animals. Therefore, mutations can be harmful or helpful according to the outcome of the mutation.

As mentioned earlier, a single change in nucleotide sequence can give rise to a mutation. These changes can occur at any time during life. Some mutations occur when the cell is replicating (dividing). Some mutations occur as a result of an outside force. As mentioned earlier, even a change in one nucleotide can result in a mutation. Therefore, even a very little force from outside can change the genome. There are many such causes of genetic mutations in animals.

Mutations Occurring During Cell Replication

Cell replication results in production of two identical cells. In order to achieve this task, a copy of each and every part of the cell should be synthesized, so they can be equally divided among the two daughter cells. This involves the synthesis of genetic materials as well. Anything that interferes with this process gives rise to a mutation.

Ultraviolet Light

Ultraviolet light may be the commonest cause of mutations in animals. The rays of the sun contain light. Some part of sun light is composed of ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light has the ability to act on animal cells and change the structure of genetic materials. Skin is widely opened to the sun light. Therefore, it is at a high risk of developing mutations. This is why people are advised to use sun cream when they are going out.

Nuclear Radiation

It is a well known fact that nuclear radiation gives rise to mutations. This is proven by the deformities seen among the victims of nuclear bomb explosions (E.g.: People of Hiroshima). Radiation is also used in medicine for various purposes. It is used in radiology for imaging. It is also used as a therapeutic material to kill cancer. Unwanted exposure to any of these procedures can result in mutation.

 Chemicals

Chemicals can also cause genetic mutations. Chemicals can enter the cells and directly damage the genome. This finally results in mutations. Examples of chemicals that can cause mutations are hydroxylamine, alkylating agents, base analogues etc. Oxidants can also cause mutations. That is why people are advised to eat fruits with anti-oxidant. Vitamin C and E contained within fruits act as antioxidants and prevent formation of mutations.

Mutations usually results in deformities, but rarely, they are helpful for development of new structures or functions of an animal that helps in evolution of animals. Knowing the causes of mutations is important to understand the behavior of genes.