Biopolymers and cell. 2007; 23 (3): 215 - 242

Mutations: what are they?

V. A. Kordium

The conceptions of mutations are analyzed. The literature data that are not consistent with the existent ideas about mutations are presented. The statement about physiological ambiguity of mutations and their biological role is formulated, according to which the mutations in soma perform a regulatory role, therefore, they are a normal component of biological processes, controlled by an organism. Once uncontrolled, mutations in soma lead to oncogenesis. As for a germ route, mutations provide the elimination of their carriers through cascade integral processes, thus realizing the function of purification. Being out of control and not resulting in elimination of their carriers, the mutations are realized into the whole range of hereditary pathologies – from a latency form (“mutational load”) to a bright manifestation.

Keywords: mutations, regulation, soma, germ route