Spontaneous mutations can arise from several mechanisms:
DNA Replication Errors: Sometimes, the DNA polymerase enzyme makes mistakes while copying DNA. While most errors are corrected by proofreading mechanisms, some slip through, leading to mutations. Spontaneous Lesions: DNA bases can undergo chemical changes such as depurination or deamination, leading to mutations. Transposable Elements: These are DNA sequences that can move around within the genome and cause mutations by inserting themselves into new locations.
