What type of mutation is characterized by the loss of a gene from a sequence?

The type of mutation characterized by the loss of a gene from a sequence is known as a deletion mutation. In genetics, deletion mutations occur when a part of the DNA sequence is removed or lost. This can result in a loss of function for the affected gene, which may alter the phenotype of the organism or lead to various genetic disorders.

In the context of other mutations, an insertion mutation involves the addition of one or more nucleotide bases into the DNA sequence, which can lead to frameshifts or other functional changes. A duplication mutation results in the copying of a segment of DNA, increasing the amount of genetic material. Translocation mutations involve the rearrangement of parts of non-homologous chromosomes, which can disrupt the function of genes but do not involve the direct removal of a sequence. Understanding the specific implications of deletion mutations is vital in genetics, as they can have significant consequences for gene expression and organismal development.