On the other hand, induced mutations are caused by natural or man-made mutagens, which alter the structure or sequence of DNA. The spontaneous mutation frequency, which is the mutants/viable cell, is relatively low.
It is essential to understand the nature of mutations because they contribute to genetic variance in a population to ensure its survival. Bacteria are easy to study because they very short reproductive and life cycles. This lets an observer study multiple generations in a very short period of time. The relatively low frequency of mutations in a population will only result in the survival of a few in the event of a biological calamity. However, the progeny of the survivors will inherit the mutant strain as well, ensuring the continuity of the species. This would be a boon to humans; to know that the species...
Spontaneous mutations will ensure that there are always some strains of bacteria resistant to antibiotics. Therefore, when a patient is treated for a bacterial infection by antibiotics, the progeny from the few mutants will now become immune to the antibiotics. Hence, researchers have to be [vigilant] in constantly searching for new mutants and new antibiotics.
Works Cited
Bouchelion et al. "Newcombe Experiment Biol302" 23 November 2008. 22 February
2011 http://userpages.umbc.edu/~bueltod1/index.html.
Team UPS. "Newcombe Experiment: A study of mutation in Escherichia Coli." 26
November 2008. 22 February 2011 http://upsbiol302.wordpress.com.
