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

Examples of genetic mutation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Additional testing will be performed to determine staging and tumor features including genetic mutations, which guide treatment decisions. — ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026

Years passed before doctors solved the mystery, first attributing the behavioral changes to frontotemporal dementia (FTD), then linking that rare condition to a genetic mutation. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 13 Oct. 2026

Advances in technology detect far more genetic mutations, which can be lifesaving information for a generation of women first screened years ago. — Julie Halpert, Washington Post, 11 Oct. 2026

About 90% of patients with the disease have a certain genetic mutation and can benefit from Trikafta and a newer-version, Alyftrek, which are both made by Vertex Pharmaceuticals. — Gerry Smith, CNBC, 9 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for genetic mutation

• acclimatisation
• acclimatization
• acidification
• actualization
• annualization
• autocorrelation
• autoregulation
• beatification
• beneficiation
• biodegradation
• biotransformation
• bureaucratization

Medical 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