1. World problems
  2. Mutagens

Mutagens

Nature

A mutagen acts by changing the genetic material that is transferred to daughter cells when cell division occurs, with the result that the new cells have new inheritable characters. Such changes in the genetic material may consist of the alteration of one or more nucleotides, or of chromosomal alterations, resulting in an altered number of chromosomes or an altered chromosomal structure. If a mutagen acts on the germ cells (spermatozoa or ova) of man (or any other sexually reproducing organism) some of the offspring will carry the mutant genes in all their cells. The mutant may be so disadvantageous that death occurs before birth, and if this occurs at a very early stage of foetal growth, the pregnancy may not even be detected. If pregnancy goes to term, however, an abnormal offspring may be born, but the appearance of such an offspring is not in itself evidence that a new mutation has occurred, since abnormal offspring may be due to a mutation in previous generations or may be due to teratogenesis. A mutagen may also have an effect on somatic cells without necessarily affecting germ cells. In the latter case the mutated cell may die or it may be turned into a cancer cell. The resultant cancer cell does not necessarily develop into a clinically apparent tumour because other processes such as promotion and progression are also necessary. Some of these latter processes may also involve mutations. A gross similarity between mutagenesis and carcinogenesis can be said to exist, since both processes produce heritable changes in the phenotype. The current investigations on oncogenes, activated during tumorigenesis in humans, indicate a close connection between mutagenesis and (part of) carcinogenesis, although the precise relation is still unknown. Similar interference with the genetic material can apparently start up uncontrolled cell division. If the products of such division displace or invade normal tissues, the result is a cancer.

In both these instances, the mutagen responsible would have manifested activity as a carcinogen. A gross similarity between mutagenesis and carcinogenesis can be said to exist, since both these processes produce heritable changes in the phenotype.

Claim

Mutagens pose a critical threat to public health and the environment, as they can induce genetic mutations that lead to cancer and hereditary diseases. The increasing exposure to chemical, physical, and biological mutagens in our daily lives demands urgent attention. Ignoring this issue jeopardizes future generations, as the long-term effects of these mutations can be catastrophic. We must prioritize research, regulation, and education to combat the dangers of mutagens and protect our genetic integrity.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

Counter-claim

Mutagens, while often discussed, are not a significant problem in our daily lives. The media exaggerates their impact, creating unnecessary fear. Most people are exposed to various substances daily without adverse effects. Our bodies have robust mechanisms to repair DNA damage, and advancements in science continue to mitigate risks. Instead of fixating on mutagens, we should focus on more pressing global issues like climate change and public health, which truly affect our well-being.This information has been generated by artificial intelligence.

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Metadata

Database
World problems
Type
(D) Detailed problems
Biological classification
N/A
Subject
  • Societal problems » Poison
  • Content quality
    Presentable
     Presentable
    Language
    English
    1A4N
    D1368
    DOCID
    11413680
    D7NID
    151118
    Last update
    Oct 4, 2020