The Gene Factor:
Cracking the Code: Mutations

This activity is an extension of Cracking the Code: A Simulation. Once the genetic code has been discovered, scientists can look for mutations on the gene that might cause cancer or other diseases. This is a simple activity requiring good observing skills. Print the page, make copies sufficient for your students and ask them to find the mutation. The basic process of matching an unknown with a known is a major part of modern genetics.

The "mutated chromosome" is chromosome 6. The "mutation" is at the location for diabetes.

For more activities and information at other Web sites...

Atlas of Genetics and Cytogenetics in Oncology and Haematology — contains a database of genes, from the Groupe Français de Cytogénétique Oncologique, INFOBIOGEN, and the University Hospital of Poitiers.

Genes and Disease — learn specifics about the connections between DNA and health, from the National Institutes of Health.

Introduction to Chromosomes — from the Genetics Science Learning Center at the University of Utah.

Types of Mutation — learn more about the specific kinds of mutations that can happen to your DNA, from the National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health.