Discuss insertions and deletions in DNA

ANSWER: The addition or removal of one or more base pairs leads to insertion or deletion mutations, respectively. Either shifts the triplet reading frame of codons, causing frameshift mutations (misincorporation of all subsequent amino acids) in the protein encoded by the gene. Such mutations can arise if flat, aromatic molecules such as acridine orange insert themselves between successive bases in one or both strands of the double helix. This insertion or, more aptly, intercalation, doubles the distance between the bases as measured along the helix axis. This distortion of the DNA results in inappropriate insertion or deletion of bases when the DNA is replicated.