Mutator: meaning, definitions and examples
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mutator
[ mjuːˈteɪtə ]
genetics
A mutator is a gene or organism that increases the mutation rate of the DNA, which can lead to genetic variation and evolution. This can be beneficial in certain contexts, such as the adaptation of species to changing environments, but it can also lead to harmful mutations and diseases.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The mutator gene in this organism accelerates its adaptation to harsh environments.
- Researchers found that the mutator strain of bacteria evolved resistance more quickly.
- In genetics, understanding mutators is crucial for studying evolutionary processes.
Etymology
The word 'mutator' is derived from the Latin root 'mutare', which means 'to change'. In the context of genetics, it refers to entities that bring about changes in genetic material. The term began to gain prominence in scientific literature during the mid-20th century as genetics became a more established field of study. The understanding of DNA and the mechanisms behind mutation have evolved, leading to a deeper exploration of how mutators affect biological processes. This concept is critical in fields such as evolutionary biology, microbiology, and medicine, where researchers study the implications of increased mutation rates on health and adaptation.