Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

frameshift

noun

/ˈfreɪm.ʃɪft/

Definition

A frameshift is a genetic mutation caused by the insertion or deletion of nucleotides in a DNA sequence that shifts the reading frame of the genetic code.

Examples

A frameshift mutation can lead to a completely different protein being produced.
When a frameshift occurs, it can result in a stop codon that prematurely ends protein synthesis.
Frameshift mutations are often caused by errors during DNA replication.

Meaning

It refers to a type of mutation that alters how the sequence of nucleotides is read, potentially leading to widespread changes in the resulting protein.