Explain how a mutation in DNA could cause a non functioning enzyme to be formed

A mutation could change the order of DNA bases which would alter the type of amino acid produced from a DNA triplet. Therefore, the enzyme, which is a protein, formed from these amino acids would be different. This may change the shape of the enzyme’s active site so it would no longer be a complementary shape to the substrate. As part of the lock and key theory, enzymes and substrates need to have complementary shapes to complete their reaction so if the active site shape is changed, the reaction cannot take place and the enzyme would not be able to function as it would have done with the normal DNA base sequence. 

HW
Answered by Hannah W. Biology tutor

7244 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe how different environmental factors affect the direction of growth of roots and shoots making reference to plant hormones


How are lungs are adapted for gaseous exchange?


Describe the flow of blood through the human circulation


A scientist is researching the effect of an energy drink on a group of twenty men. State two characteristics of the sample which may influence the results.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences