Gene Changes (Mutations)

What Causes a Gene Mutation?

A gene can mutate because of:

• a change in one or more nucleotides of DNA
• a change in many genes
• loss of one or more genes
• rearrangement of genes or whole chromosomes

Do Parents Pass Gene Mutations to Children?

If a parent carries a gene mutation in their egg or sperm, it can pass to their child. These hereditary (or inherited) mutations are in almost every cell of the person's body throughout their life. Hereditary mutations include cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, and sickle cell disease.

Other mutations can happen on their own during a person's life. These are called sporadic, spontaneous, or new mutations. They affect only some cells. Damage from the sun's ultraviolet radiation or exposure to some types of chemicals can lead to new mutations. These mutations are not passed from parents to their children.

Do All Gene Mutations Cause Health Problems?

Most gene mutations have no effect on health. And the body can repair many mutations. Some mutations are even helpful. For example, people can have a mutation that protects them from heart disease or gives them harder bones.