Original DNA: TAC CTA GGA CCA ACT has changed to TAC CTA GAC CAA CT.
What type of mutation has occurred, and has it caused a frameshift?
Could a Highly Dangerous COVID Mutation Emerge in Our Pets? Here's The Science
a
translocation - yes
b
substitution- no
c
deletion - yes
d
insertion - no
Let's compare the two DNA sequences:
Original: TAC CTA GGA CCA ACT
Changed: TAC CTA GAC CAA CT
When comparing the sequences, it's evident that the original "GG" has changed to "G" and "CCA" has changed to "CA," indicating that a 'G' has been removed from the original sequence.
This type of mutation is called a deletion because a base has been deleted from the original sequence. As a result of the deletion, all of the downstream codons are shifted, which results in a frameshift mutation. A frameshift mutation changes the grouping of the bases into codons, which can significantly alter the amino acid sequence encoded by the gene.
So, our option is:
c) deletion - yes
And for the topic of emergent mutations in pets relating to COVID-19, while it is theoretically possible for a virus to undergo significant mutations in different hosts, the actual risk depends on various factors, such as the virus's ability to infect and replicate within the new host species, the immune response of the host, and the potential for the mutated virus to spread to other individuals. Scientific vigilance and ongoing research are necessary to monitor and understand the evolution of the virus in any host, including pets, to assess and mitigate potential risks.