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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Similar to dilated cardiomyopathy, restrictive cardiomyopathy can have a number of potential causes, including genetic mutations, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
—Elizabeth Millard, TIME, 18 Dec. 2024
All three cases had a distinct genetic mutation that made the bacteria resistant to yet another class of antibiotics, the cephalosporins, which are often used to treat Shigella infections when other drugs fail.
—Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 18 Dec. 2024
And drugs exist that target a very specific genetic mutation in some tumors.
—Cory Smith, Baltimore Sun, 20 Nov. 2024
Research suggests that most people with Crohn's disease have a genetic mutation (a permanent change in DNA sequence of a gene) that makes their gut lining cells more vulnerable to damage from a viral norovirus infection, which triggers symptoms.6
6.
—Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024
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Elizabeth Millard, TIME, 18 Dec. 2024
All three cases had a distinct genetic mutation that made the bacteria resistant to yet another class of antibiotics, the cephalosporins, which are often used to treat Shigella infections when other drugs fail.
—Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 18 Dec. 2024
And drugs exist that target a very specific genetic mutation in some tumors.
—Cory Smith, Baltimore Sun, 20 Nov. 2024
Research suggests that most people with Crohn's disease have a genetic mutation (a permanent change in DNA sequence of a gene) that makes their gut lining cells more vulnerable to damage from a viral norovirus infection, which triggers symptoms.6
6.
—Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for genetic mutation
Dictionary Entries Near genetic mutation
Cite this Entry
“Genetic mutation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genetic%20mutation. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.
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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