mutation

model of DNA double helix

Faulty building blocks in DNA

An enzyme that builds DNA is able to insert the wrong building blocks, which could generate mutations.

(iStockphoto.com)

Mitochondrial mutations not random

A study of mitochondrial DNA mutations suggests they result from a process that selects for particular mutations in certain tissues.

Gene linked to familial prostate cancer

A rare, inherited mutation confers an eightfold increased risk of prostate cancer, a recent study shows.

mother and baby

Kids’ cells okay after mom’s cancer radiation

Study finds no evidence of increased mitochondrial mutations in the children of women treated with radiation for cancer.