A mutagen is an agent that induces genetic mutation by altering the DNA sequence. Mutagens can be physical, chemical, or biological in nature.
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Mutagens can be classified into three main types: physical (e.g., radiation), chemical (e.g., certain chemicals like benzene), and biological (e.g., viruses).
Exposure to mutagens can lead to various genetic mutations such as point mutations, insertions, deletions, and chromosomal rearrangements.
Mutagenic agents are often used in research to study gene function by inducing specific mutations.
Some mutagens are also carcinogens, meaning they have the potential to cause cancer by inducing mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth.
DNA repair mechanisms exist in cells to correct damage caused by mutagens, but these systems are not always foolproof.