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

In a study posted to the preprint server bioRxiv last March, Dzirasa and his colleagues tested the tool in mice with a genetic mutation that caused repetitive grooming behaviors reminiscent of OCD. — Simon Makin, Scientific American, 29 Oct. 2026

Women who have the genetic mutation have a higher chance of developing breast, ovarian and pancreatic cancers. — ABC News, 27 Oct. 2026

The drug was given to patients with non-small cell lung cancer that had spread, in part because of a genetic mutation, after other treatments, including chemotherapy. — Ed Silverman, STAT, 26 Oct. 2026

Jaxson’s genetic mutation is under the umbrella of Leigh syndrome. — Ciara McCarthy 22, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 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