The Genetics of Mutation

Mutation rates depend on the particular target gene, on the individual and the species, and on germ cell stage and sex. The role of germ cell stage is particularly important in the evaluation of human hazard. 

Known differences in mutational response between sexes and between germ cell stages are still limited largely to spontaneous mutation and that induced by ionizing radiation.29 3e6 472 473 Qn the one hand, there are indications of 

Environmental effects on mutation rates (other than those attributable to mutagens themselves) have yet to be documented in mammals, although they probably exist. Examples expected to emerge are drug effects on mutagen activation or DNA repair. 

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The genetics of mutations in mtDNA are defined by maternal inheritance, replicative segregation, threshold expression, a high mtDNA mutation rate, and the accumulation of somatic mutations with age. The maternal inheritance pattern reflects the exclusive transmission of mtDNA from the mother to her children. The egg contains approximately 300,000 molecules of mtDNA packaged into mitochondria. These are... 

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