Molecular Genetics

Other Pages

Genome projects targeted at sequencing an organism's DNA provide a static picture of the genome of one individual (or an amalgam of individuals). Actually, genomes are in a constant state of flux. Sources of genome change include:

• DNA damage, repair, and mutation. Mutations arise through damage to DNA that has not been repaired.
• DNA rearrangements. Site-specific recombination and transposition mediated rearrangements require recognition of a specific target sequence.
• Genome invasion. DNA from other organisms can become established within an organism's genome.
• Gene and sequence amplification. Short or long sequences may, under certain conditions, become amplified many fold.
• Recombination. Exchange occurs between homologous DNA sequences.