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

Nuvalent is a specialist oncology, late-stage development biotech company focused on subsets of lung cancer with specific genetic mutations. —Anniek Bao,elsa Ohlen, CNBC, 9 June 2026

The company has two drugs under review by the Food and Drug Administration that target genetic mutations found in lung cancer. —Elaine Chen, STAT, 9 June 2026

However, the majority of pancreatic cancers occur when genetic mutations trigger uncontrolled growth of cells in the pancreas, eventually forming tumors. —Janet Loehrke, USA Today, 8 June 2026

Beyond melanoma detection The study used mouse models engineered with genetic mutations similar to human melanoma. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 25 May 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