Medical Genetics - V. M. Zaporozhan 2005

Etiology of Hereditary Diseases
Mutagenic Factors
Biological Mutagens

First and foremost, these are Viruses. Chromosomal aberrations in somatic Cells and Gene Mutations are caused by the viruses of smallpox, measles, chickenpox, mumps, Influenza, hepatitis, and others. Their mutagenicity is due to the integration of viral DNA into human DNA via a transposition-like mechanism. Of particular note is mutagenesis induced by live-Attenuated Vaccines, as they affect large population groups. Toxins from certain Bacteria (such as hemolytic streptococcus and the CAUSATIVE AGENT OF dysentery) and Molds (such as Aspergillus species) also act as mutagens. Furthermore, the parasitic activity of certain helminths (such as Blood flukes and cat Liver flukes) exerts a carcinogenic effect.

The spread of mutagens in the environment threatens to increase the frequency of mutations, elevate the genetic load on humanity, and drive a rise in hereditary disorders. A specialized branch of genetics—Ecogenetics—investigates the mutagenic and carcinogenic activity of anthropogenic factors, serving as the foundation for developing Methods and techniques to assess the genetic activity of chemical compounds. One of the primary goals of ecogenetics is to mitigate genetic hazards across all spheres of human activity.



Last update: 11/08/2026

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