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

The genetic counselor will assess the benefit of genetic testing for the patient to see if a genetic mutation (a change in a person's DNA, a molecule carrying genetic information) has contributed to cancer development. —Team Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 3 Apr. 2025

As someone with difficulty detoxing due to the MTHFR genetic mutation, my body went into a systemic inflammatory response that my doctor confirmed with bloodwork. —Jessica Ourisman, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025

Scientists are sounding alarms about a genetic mutation that was recently identified in four dairy cow herds, nearly one year after H5N1 bird flu was first reported in Texas dairy cattle. —Susanne Rust, Los Angeles Times, 12 Mar. 2025

While many people with genetic mutations may never get cancer, these mutations, if found, confer a higher risk of disease. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 25 Feb. 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