Question

Which of the following is NOT correct about mutagenesis using a chemical mutagen?

• A. Low frequency of mutations in the gene of interest
• B. Inability to confirm the location of the causal mutation even after getting the desired phenotype
• C. Creation of point mutations at a specific position in the gene of interest
• D. Analysis of a large number of offspring is required to isolate the desired mutant

Hint:

Chemical mutagenesis = Random mutations Targeted mutations require gene editing (e.g., CRISPR)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Concept: Chemical mutagens (e.g., EMS) induce random mutations in DNA, not targeted ones.

Step 1: Nature of chemical mutagenesis.

• Causes random mutations
• Often induces point mutations
• Location of mutation is not predetermined

Step 2: Analyze statements.

• (A) Correct → Mutation frequency in specific gene is low
• (B) Correct → Mutation site is difficult to identify
• (C) Incorrect → Cannot target specific position (random process)
• (D) Correct → Requires screening many individuals

Step 3: Final conclusion.
Thus, the incorrect statement is: \[ Creation of point mutations at a specific position in the gene of interest \]