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
Some people have lymphoproliferative disorders that stem from genetic mutations, said Jennifer Yeh, MD, PhD, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology and co-director of the dermatology-rheumatology multidisciplinary clinic at the Stanford University School of Medicine.
—Julia Landwehr, Health, 13 June 2024
The condition, called glycogen disease type 1A, is caused by a genetic mutation that prevents patients from maintaining blood sugar levels.
—Meghana Keshavan, STAT, 31 May 2024
The medicine, for patients whose lung tumors have particular genetic mutations, generated only $575 million last year — an amount that is up 57% from the year prior, but that still constitutes only 1% of the drug giant’s annual sales.
—Matthew Herper, STAT, 31 May 2024
Researchers will continue to monitor the virus for genetic mutations or signs of further spread that might indicate the virus has become more transmissible or poses more of a risk to humans, Silva Del Rio says.
—Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for genetic mutation 
Julia Landwehr, Health, 13 June 2024
The condition, called glycogen disease type 1A, is caused by a genetic mutation that prevents patients from maintaining blood sugar levels.
—Meghana Keshavan, STAT, 31 May 2024
The medicine, for patients whose lung tumors have particular genetic mutations, generated only $575 million last year — an amount that is up 57% from the year prior, but that still constitutes only 1% of the drug giant’s annual sales.
—Matthew Herper, STAT, 31 May 2024
Researchers will continue to monitor the virus for genetic mutations or signs of further spread that might indicate the virus has become more transmissible or poses more of a risk to humans, Silva Del Rio says.
—Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for genetic mutation
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'genetic mutation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 4 Jul. 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
Joseph AlperLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share