What is meant by the term "mutagen"?

What is meant by the term "mutagen"?

• A. A substance that promotes healing
• B. A substance that causes changes in DNA
• C. A factor that enhances genetic diversity
• D. Any harmful substance in a workplace

Answer: (B)

The term "mutagen" refers to a substance that causes changes in DNA. Mutagens can alter the genetic material within an organism, and these changes can lead to mutations. Mutations may affect cell function, lead to various biological consequences, and sometimes result in diseases such as cancer. Understanding mutagens is crucial in toxicology, as they can arise from various environmental exposures, including chemicals, radiation, and biological agents, affecting living organisms at the genetic level. This definition underscores the importance of recognizing mutagens in toxicological assessments and the broader implications they have on health and disease.

The term "mutagen" refers to a substance that causes changes in DNA. Mutagens can alter the genetic material within an organism, and these changes can lead to mutations. Mutations may affect cell function, lead to various biological consequences, and sometimes result in diseases such as cancer. Understanding mutagens is crucial in toxicology, as they can arise from various environmental exposures, including chemicals, radiation, and biological agents, affecting living organisms at the genetic level. This definition underscores the importance of recognizing mutagens in toxicological assessments and the broader implications they have on health and disease.