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

Animal studies showed that immune cells sometimes produced antibodies that acted like those rare genetic mutations to prevent folate in the bloodstream from reaching the brain. —Jon Hamilton, NPR, 22 Jan. 2026

New research has found that two genetic mutations, each individually harmful, can sometimes combine to restore normal protein function. —William A. Haseltine, Forbes.com, 20 Jan. 2026

For example, research has shown that people from Cyprus, a small island in the Mediterranean, are at risk for C3G due to a genetic mutation in the CFHR5 gene, which affects the complement system. —Carrie Madormo, Health, 15 Jan. 2026

The two doctors began been working together in 2023, investigating new ways to correct genetic mutations in young children with ultra-rare diseases. —Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 21 Dec. 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