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 company’s test can also identify genetic mutations that indicate a patient won’t respond to a particular medicine. —Alex Knapp, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025

Certain genetic mutations may cause skin cancer to be more aggressive and spread quickly. —Casey Gallagher, Health, 15 Apr. 2025

He was later confirmed to have the genetic mutation that indicates Dravet's. —Angela Andaloro, People.com, 3 Apr. 2025

The injection will test a new gene therapy that, instead of targeting specific genetic mutations that cause NAION, attempts to return certain optic-nerve cells to their pre-NAION state. —Alice Park, TIME, 11 Mar. 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