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

First came the biological changes to the human body, genetic mutations followed by natural selection. —Elissa Strauss, The Atlantic, 28 Aug. 2025

In the new research, when E. coli was exposed to ciprofloxacin alongside ibuprofen and paracetamol – both alone and especially when combined – the painkillers significantly increased genetic mutations in the bacteria. —Khloe Quill, FOXNews.com, 28 Aug. 2025

Researchers at The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) found that twisted and narrowed vessels in the retinas of mice with a common genetic mutation strongly resemble vascular abnormalities seen in Alzheimer’s patients. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 26 Aug. 2025

Albinism in dolphins is caused by a genetic mutation affecting the production of melanin, which creates a lack of pigmentation. —Escher Walcott, People.com, 25 Aug. 2025

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