Which chromosomal mutation results from reversing a segment within the same chromosome?

Which chromosomal mutation results from reversing a segment within the same chromosome?

• A. Inversion Chromosomal Mutation
• B. Deletion Chromosomal Mutation
• C. Insertion Chromosomal Mutation
• D. Translocation Chromosomal Mutation

Answer: (A)

Reversing a segment within the same chromosome is called an inversion. An inversion occurs when a portion of the chromosome breaks, flips 180 degrees, and reattaches in the opposite orientation, so the gene order is reversed but the total amount of DNA stays the same. It can involve the centromere (pericentric) or not (paracentric). Since nothing is added or lost and the segment remains on the same chromosome, this fits the description of an inversion. In contrast, deletion removes genetic material, insertion adds material, and translocation moves a segment to a different chromosome or a different location.

Reversing a segment within the same chromosome is called an inversion. An inversion occurs when a portion of the chromosome breaks, flips 180 degrees, and reattaches in the opposite orientation, so the gene order is reversed but the total amount of DNA stays the same. It can involve the centromere (pericentric) or not (paracentric). Since nothing is added or lost and the segment remains on the same chromosome, this fits the description of an inversion. In contrast, deletion removes genetic material, insertion adds material, and translocation moves a segment to a different chromosome or a different location.