Mutagenesis as viewed from another perspective.
Mutation has generally been considered a random process, not directed. Thus, a mechanism allowing for adaptively responsive mutagenesis has conceptually been precluded. However, an adaptively directed mutagenesis in response to environmental stress can be based upon genetic mutator systems. Such systems, known for years, have been seen as exceptional and not considered in terms of an adaptively responsive mutagenesis. Environmental stress which invokes this type of mutagenesis can thus be regarded as mutagenic itself, and our concept of what is mutagenic must therefore be broadened. Relevant matters are also discussed.
Lieber
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D000222:Adaptation, Physiological / Q000502:physiology*; D016296:Mutagenesis / Q000235:genetics*