New Genes as a Result from Changes and Mutations in Existing Genes

Evolution is the process through which species evolve over time due to changes in their genetic material.
A gene is a section of DNA that determines a singular trait, including characteristics such as eye colour and blood type.
New genes can emerge as a result of changes and mutations in existing genes. This can occur via two main ways: gene duplication and horizontal gene transfer.
In gene duplication, a gene is copied and can evolve to have a new function while the original gene can continue to function normally.
In horizontal gene transfer, genetic material is directly transferred between two organisms that are not parent and offspring, which is common in bacteria.
Mutations are changes in the genetic code. They can introduce new genetic variations into a population and have the potential to create significant evolutionary change.
Mutations can be neutral, beneficial or harmful. Beneficial mutations give an organism a survival advantage and are therefore likely to be passed on to subsequent generations.
High mutation rates can lead to the evolution of resistance to antibiotics in bacteria, a topic of significate global concern.
Mutations can occur spontaneously or can be induced by environmental factors like radiation or certain chemicals. However, most mutations are repaired by cellular mechanisms.
Mutations affecting somatic cells will only affect the individual organism, while mutations in gametes will be passed on to the organism’s offspring.
The theory of evolution by natural selection suggests that only organisms with favourable characteristics are likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on these favourable traits to their offspring.
Overall, mutations and their alterations to an organism’s genes lead to variation and diversity in a population, which is a key component of evolution.