NEETZoologyMolecular Basis of Inheritance
When is a DNA mutation referred to as a DNA polymorphism?
Options
- AWhen the mutation is not inheritable
- BWhen the mutation occurs in coding DNA sequence
- CWhen more than one variant at a locus occurs in a population with a frequency greater than 0.01
- DWhen the mutation occurs in non-coding DNA sequence
Correct answer
C. When more than one variant at a locus occurs in a population with a frequency greater than 0.01
Step-by-step solution
As polymorphism in DNA sequence is the basis of genetic mapping of human genome as well as of DNA fingerprinting, it is essential that we understand what DNA polymorphism means in simple terms. Polymorphism (variation at genetic level) arises due to mutations. New mutations may arise in an individual either in somatic cells or in the germ cells (cells that generate gametes in sexually reproducing organisms). If a germ cell mutation does not seriously impair an individual's ability to have offspring who can transmit