Frameshift
Definition
A shift in a coding reading frame caused by a length change not divisible by three. A mismatch concerns a non-standard base pairing at a position. Consequences depend on sequence context and the assay or biological question.
- Context
- Sequence interpretation
For example, a one-base insertion within a coding region can alter the later reading frame, whereas a three-base insertion need not shift it.
Neither term alone establishes a clinical effect or a forensic source association.
Related terms
- Germline Mutation
- A sequence change in a lineage that can contribute to offspring. A somatic mutation occurs in a body-cell lineage and is usually...
- Semiconservative Replication
- Copying in which each daughter DNA duplex contains a parental strand and a newly synthesised strand. The principle describes replication, not an...
- Somatic Mutation
- A change occurring in a body-cell lineage, usually not transmitted to offspring. The category does not by itself identify the timing, cause...
- Stutter
- An amplification artefact at an STR target, commonly differing by one repeat from an allele. Dropout concerns a true contributor allele not...