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
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
What causes these genetic mutations is not fully understood, but a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and family history factors likely plays a role.3
Genetic Factors
Research shows that multiple myeloma develops when genetic mutations occur in the DNA of plasma cells.
—Lindsay Curtis, Health, 14 Feb. 2025
In the 2000s, advancements in DNA sequencing led to a swell of genetic research that found that about two-thirds of those familial cases are connected to a handful of genetic mutations.
—Shayla Love, The Atlantic, 23 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for genetic mutation
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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
What causes these genetic mutations is not fully understood, but a combination of environmental, lifestyle, and family history factors likely plays a role.3
Genetic Factors
Research shows that multiple myeloma develops when genetic mutations occur in the DNA of plasma cells.
—Lindsay Curtis, Health, 14 Feb. 2025
In the 2000s, advancements in DNA sequencing led to a swell of genetic research that found that about two-thirds of those familial cases are connected to a handful of genetic mutations.
—Shayla Love, The Atlantic, 23 Mar. 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 23 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
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