human
Please explain the concept of a genetic mutation.
assistant
A genetic mutation is a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence that makes up a gene. Mutations can be caused by environmental factors such as radiation and chemicals, or can occur naturally during DNA replication. Mutations can be either beneficial, harmful, or neutral, depending on their effect on the organism. A beneficial mutation, for example, could be beneficial in that it could give the organism a new trait that helps it survive. A harmful mutation could cause a maladaptive trait or disease. Neutral mutations do not necessarily have an impact on the organism and can occur in areas of the gene that are not expressed. Mutation is a key factor in evolution, as it provides the variety of genetic variation that is needed for natural selection to take place.