The idea that mutations are random is an important concept for evolutionary theory. Yet, multiple areas of research are telling us that mutation placement and type are not at all random. There is also no reason to believe that mutation rates have remained constant over history. Join Dr Rob and he wades into the deep waters of mutation theory.

Links:

• Guiblet WM, et al. 2021. Non-B DNA: a major contributor to small- and large-scale variation in nucleotide substitution frequencies across the genome, Nuc Ac Res 49(3):1497–1516.
• Sholtis S, Unusual DNA folding increases the rates of mutations, ScienceDaily.com, 9 Feb 2021.
• Pyne ALB, et al. 2021 Base-pair resolution analysis of the effect of supercoiling on DNA flexibility and major groove recognition by triplex-forming oligonucleotides. Nat Commun 12:1053.

Thumbnail image: Lucas Santos via Unsplash.com

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