Intragenic suppression occurs when a second mutation within the same gene counteracts the effect of an initial deleterious mutation, restoring partial or full function of the gene product. This phenomenon highlights the gene's structural adaptability and offers insights into compensatory mechanisms that can influence genetic variability and resilience in organisms.
Compensatory mutation refers to genetic changes that mitigate or reverse the detrimental effects of a previous mutation, restoring functionality or fitness. These mutations play a crucial role in evolutionary biology by allowing organisms to adapt and survive despite potentially harmful genetic alterations.
Genetic suppression occurs when a genetic mutation's effects are counteracted or suppressed by a second mutation, which often reverts the organism to a wild-type or near wild-type phenotype. This phenomenon highlights the complex interplay of genetic interactions that can be exploited to study gene function and develop therapeutic strategies for genetic disorders.