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
Natalie AngierExamples of genetic mutation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Researchers also introduced a genetic mutation that allowed some synthetic cells to grow faster than others.
—
Greg Wehner,
FOXNews.com,
3 July 2026
Researchers are now identifying causes that were invisible before, from noise exposure habits to rare genetic mutations.
—
Allison Palmer,
Miami Herald,
1 July 2026
Dylan’s older brother, 9-year-old Ethan Oman, was born with a rare genetic mutation that causes seizures and global developmental delay.
—
Lillian Ashworth,
Oc Register,
29 June 2026
In hindsight, researchers said, finding similar genetic mutations in cat and human cancers makes sense.
—
Kyle Melnick The Washington Post,
Arkansas Online,
21 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for genetic mutation
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Greg Wehner,
FOXNews.com,
3 July 2026
Researchers are now identifying causes that were invisible before, from noise exposure habits to rare genetic mutations.
—
Allison Palmer,
Miami Herald,
1 July 2026
Dylan’s older brother, 9-year-old Ethan Oman, was born with a rare genetic mutation that causes seizures and global developmental delay.
—
Lillian Ashworth,
Oc Register,
29 June 2026
In hindsight, researchers said, finding similar genetic mutations in cat and human cancers makes sense.
—
Kyle Melnick The Washington Post,
Arkansas Online,
21 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for genetic mutation
Cite this Entry
“Genetic mutation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genetic%20mutation. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical 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
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