Hypomorphic Mutations

Hypomorphic mutations are genetic changes that reduce, but do not eliminate, the normal function of a gene. Unlike mutations that cause a gene to become completely inactive, hypomorphic mutations result in a partial loss of activity or output. This can lead to milder or altered traits or symptoms, depending on how much the gene’s function is diminished. Such mutations help us understand the gene's role because they show what happens when its activity is decreased rather than entirely lost. They are important in studying genetic diseases and normal biological processes.