Heterozygous mutations

Heterozygous mutations occur when an individual has two copies of a gene, and only one of these copies is altered or mutated. This means the person carries both a normal gene and a mutated version. The presence of a healthy copy can often compensate for the mutation, so the person might not show symptoms. However, in some cases, the mutation can influence traits or increase the risk of certain diseases, especially if the mutation affects critical gene functions or if two mutated copies are inherited. Essentially, heterozygous means having one normal and one altered gene present.