Revertantmutatie

Revertantmutatie, also known as back mutation or reverse mutation, refers to a genetic mutation that restores the original wild-type phenotype. This can occur through a second mutation at the same site as the original mutation, correcting the DNA sequence back to its functional state. Alternatively, a suppressor mutation can occur at a different genetic locus, indirectly compensating for the effect of the initial mutation and restoring the normal phenotype. While the DNA sequence may not be identical to the original wild-type, the functional outcome is the same. Revertant mutations are important tools in genetic research, allowing scientists to study gene function and the mechanisms of mutation and repair. They are also relevant in understanding the evolution of drug resistance in pathogens and the development of genetic diseases. The observation of revertant mutations was historically significant in early genetics, contributing to the understanding of gene structure and mutational processes.