Question

Frameshift mutations ____________.
a. are usually the result of damage caused by free radicals.
b. cause a change in the reading frame of mRNA codons.
c. are usually caused by base analogs.
d. cause a single amino acid change in the polypeptide chain.
e. usually occur because of radiation exposure.

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer is option b. "cause a change in the reading frame of mRNA codons".

Explanation:

Frameshift mutations are among the most drastic mutations because in most cases, result in the translation of a completely different protein. Frameshift mutations are the result of insertions or deletion of one or more nucleotides, resulting in a change in the reading frame of mRNA codons. In consequence, the ribosome translates a different amino acid sequence, based on the new reading frame of mRNA codons.