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QuestionBiochemistry

"Select all of the following that apply to missense mutations. They are often harmful or even fatal. They are a type of point mutation. They potentially, but rarely, result in a better protein. The sickle cell mutation in hemoglobin is an example. They involve the replacement of one DNA nucleotide with another."
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Answer

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Step 1:
Let's solve this problem step by step:

Step 2:
: Understand Missense Mutations

A missense mutation is a type of point mutation where a single nucleotide change results in a different amino acid being incorporated into the protein during translation.

Step 3:
: Evaluate Each Statement

Step 4:
"They are often harmful or even fatal"

- $$\checkmark$$ Correct.
Most missense mutations alter the protein's structure or function, which can be detrimental to the organism.

Step 5:
"They are a type of point mutation"

- $$\checkmark$$ Correct.
Missense mutations are specifically defined as point mutations where one nucleotide is replaced by another.

Step 6:
"They potentially, but rarely, result in a better protein"

- $$\checkmark$$ Correct.
While rare, some missense mutations can occasionally improve protein function through evolutionary processes.

Step 7:
"The sickle cell mutation in hemoglobin is an example"

- $$\checkmark$$ Correct.
The sickle cell mutation is a classic example of a missense mutation where a single nucleotide change alters hemoglobin's structure.

Step 8:
"They involve the replacement of one DNA nucleotide with another"

- $$\checkmark$$ Correct.
This is the fundamental definition of a missense mutation.

Final Answer

All five statements are correct and apply to missense mutations.