Genetic mutation refers to change in the nature of genes present in cells of all living organisms, and which constitute the basic unit of heredity of these organisms. Such mutations can take place due to external causes such as radiations, viruses and mutagenic chemicals. Some genetic mutations may also result from errors that occur during DNA replication.
Organisms have a built in mechanism to eliminate cells with genetic mutation from the body. However there is a limitation to this capabilities. As a result mutation may result in abnormal growth of ells with mutation causing cancer.
Also mutation on cells involved in reproduction may result in genetic defects in offspring and the defects being passed on to heredity.
Viral mutations refer do genetic mutations that occur in viruses causing new strains of viruses being developed as a result of the mutations being passed on to heredity. Frequently, such new strains disease causing viruses pose great health hazard as human have no immunity to such new strains of viruses. Also the existing antibiotic drugs may bot be very effective in treating diseases caused by them.
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