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

Additionally, high-temperature cooking, including deep frying, promotes the formation of mutagenic (inducing or capable of inducing genetic mutation) compounds, such as heterocyclic amines, as well as advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which may contribute to insulin resistance. —Brittany Poulson, Verywell Health, 21 July 2025

Scientists subsequently have discovered genetic mutations that cause some of the most severe forms of epilepsy. —Patricia Callahan, CNN Money, 18 July 2025

Ng’s review also found that 15% to 30% of people with early-onset gastrointestinal cancer carry hereditary genetic mutations that may have predisposed them to getting cancer at a young age. —Aria Bendix, NBC news, 17 July 2025

Scientists there are investigating how tumors with specific genetic mutations respond to human therapies. —Knowable Magazine, Smithsonian Magazine, 16 July 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