Mutation
돌연변이
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<speciesfyi-glossary slug="mutation"></speciesfyi-glossary>Definition
A permanent change in the DNA sequence of a gene that may alter protein function and be passed to offspring.
Detailed Explanation
Most mutations are neutral or slightly harmful, but rarely a mutation provides an advantage that natural selection amplifies. Point mutations change a single nucleotide; larger insertions, deletions, or duplications can alter entire gene regions. Mutation is the ultimate source of all genetic variation — without it, evolution would halt. Somatic mutations in body cells cause cancer; germline mutations are heritable.