In fireflies (Photinus pyralis), the enzyme luciferase catalyses the bioluminescent reaction that produces light flashes used to attract mates.
Define the term gene mutation.
Explain how a mutation within the coding sequence of the luciferase gene (luclucluc) might have absolutely no effect on the primary structure of the translated luciferase polypeptide.
Conversely, explain how a different mutation in the luc luc\,luc gene could result in a non-functional luciferase enzyme, and explain how this would have a negative effect on the survival or reproductive success of the firefly.
12 exam-style questions on AQA A Level Biology Alteration of the sequence of bases in DNA can alter the structure of proteins (A-level only), covering Alteration of the sequence of bases in DNA can alter the structure of proteins (A-level only). Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.