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
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
See All Example Sentences for genetic mutation
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
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
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 29 Apr. 2025.
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
Joseph AlperLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share