Question

Many different types of mutations can occur within the body. Sickle cell anemia is a disease that occurs when a mutation in a base pair of the hemoglobin beta gene causes a single replacement of the amino acid glutamic acid by the amino acid valine. As a result of this mutation, the individual’s blood cells take on a sickle shape under certain conditions and form clusters that can block blood vessels and cause organ damage.

The mutation of sickle cell anemia. Red blood cells.

Which type of mutation causes sickle cell anemia?
silent
missense
insertion
frameshift

Answer 1

Missense — a single base substitution changes one codon (GAG → GTG), replacing glutamic acid with valine and altering the hemoglobin protein.