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gene mutation
noun
plural gene mutations
: a permanent alteration (as by point mutation or frameshift mutation) in the nucleotide sequence of a gene
Researchers have identified a gene mutation that's believed to predispose people to malignant melanoma, the deadliest and most aggressive type of skin cancer.—Health News
compare point mutation
Examples of gene mutation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Some individuals with an MTHFR gene mutation cannot fully convert folate into its active form and need to take folate in the methylated form like in this supplement.
—Erika Prouty, Verywell Health, 11 Apr. 2024
They are not recommended for those who have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation or a previous history of breast cancer.
—Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 18 Mar. 2024
See all Example Sentences for gene mutation
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'gene mutation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1904, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near gene mutation
Cite this Entry
“Gene mutation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gene%20mutation. Accessed 31 May. 2024.
Kids Definition
gene mutation
noun
: mutation due to a chemical change in a gene
Medical Definition
gene mutation
noun
: a permanent alteration (as a point mutation or frameshift mutation) in the nucleotide sequence of a gene
… there is a 50 percent chance each offspring will inherit the gene mutation and may develop the disease.—Fred Cicetti
In early August the team published a study in Nature that chronicled how a single gene mutation in a laboratory strain of Escherichia coli could create a bacterium resistant to triclosan …—Gary Stix
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