genetic mutation
noun
plural genetic mutations
: a permanent alteration in the nucleotide sequence of one or more genes or in the number or structure of one or more chromosomes
Lacking working copies of the p53 gene, cells can begin to divide without check, though several other genetic mutations are thought to be needed to foster a full-blown malignancy.—
Natalie Angier
Natalie AngierExamples of genetic mutation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Researchers will continue to monitor the virus for genetic mutations or signs of further spread that might indicate the virus has become more transmissible or poses more of a risk to humans, Silva Del Rio says.
—Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 May 2024
Innovative lab tests have been developed to detect proteins, genetic mutations, and biological markers for various diseases.
—Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 20 May 2024
This injectable drug was approved by the FDA in 2022, not as a general weight-loss drug, but for the treatment of severe obesity caused by a genetic mutation.
—Stephen C. George, Discover Magazine, 30 Apr. 2024
World's Only All-White Panda Captured on Video in Rare Sighting
Albinism is a genetic mutation that causes cells not to produce melanin.
—Kelli Bender, Peoplemag, 1 May 2024
There are about 150 possible genetic mutations that may cause type 2 diabetes.
—Barbie Cervoni, Health, 2 Apr. 2024
According to the new paper, a genetic mutation in our ancient ancestors is to thank for our lack of tail.
—Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 4 Mar. 2024
Down syndrome occurs when a genetic mutation causes two copies of chromosome 21 to form, resulting in physical and developmental changes, the study authors said in a Feb. 20 statement.
—Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 20 Feb. 2024
Patients either get the disorder from their parents or a random genetic mutation.
—Vanessa Etienne, Peoplemag, 22 Jan. 2024
Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 May 2024
Innovative lab tests have been developed to detect proteins, genetic mutations, and biological markers for various diseases.
—Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 20 May 2024
This injectable drug was approved by the FDA in 2022, not as a general weight-loss drug, but for the treatment of severe obesity caused by a genetic mutation.
—Stephen C. George, Discover Magazine, 30 Apr. 2024
World's Only All-White Panda Captured on Video in Rare Sighting
Albinism is a genetic mutation that causes cells not to produce melanin.
—Kelli Bender, Peoplemag, 1 May 2024
There are about 150 possible genetic mutations that may cause type 2 diabetes.
—Barbie Cervoni, Health, 2 Apr. 2024
According to the new paper, a genetic mutation in our ancient ancestors is to thank for our lack of tail.
—Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 4 Mar. 2024
Down syndrome occurs when a genetic mutation causes two copies of chromosome 21 to form, resulting in physical and developmental changes, the study authors said in a Feb. 20 statement.
—Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 20 Feb. 2024
Patients either get the disorder from their parents or a random genetic mutation.
—Vanessa Etienne, Peoplemag, 22 Jan. 2024
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'genetic mutation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near genetic mutation
Cite this Entry
“Genetic mutation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genetic%20mutation. Accessed 1 Jun. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
genetic mutation
noun
: a permanent alteration in the nucleotide sequence of one or more genes or in the number or structure of one or more chromosomes
Gaucher's disease results from one of many genetic mutations that can either slow or prevent the breakdown of certain glycolipids, which accumulate in storage vesicles and eventually kill cells.—Joseph Alper
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