The Molecular Basis of Mutation

This book offers the first extensive introduction to mutational mechanisms, one of the most rapidly progressing and fruitful areas of molecular biology. It presents a broad outline of present knowledge while emphasizing many of the doubtful areas. The discussion is primarily concerned with mutation in prokaryotic microorganisms, because most of the early conceptual advances in molecular genetics arose from studies on these forums. Great emphasis is placed on bacteriophage systems, since these have been the most revealing in the development of current theory and description. A brief introduction to the structure, replication and genetics of viruses is provided. The effects of mutation on gene action are briefly considered in chapters on suppression and on polarity and complementation. This book is heavily referenced with investigators names appearing in the body of the book. Extensive use is made of the explanatory figures and suggestions for future investigations are frequently provided. The book is designed to appeal to graduate students and professional investigators (especially those entering the field of molecular biology from other disciplines). No detailed knowledge of genetics or biochemistry is assumed. John W. Drake is an American microbiologist, working for over half a century in the field of mutagenesis and DNA repair.