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
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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
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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
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 4 Aug. 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
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