mutations

Cultural  

1. Changes in chromosomes or genes that cause offspring to have characteristics different from those of their parents. Mutations can be caused by the effects of chemicals, radiation, or even ordinary heat on DNA. Mutations produce some of the differences between members of a species on which natural selection acts.

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Example Sentences

These changes, rather than new DNA mutations, appeared to drive the cancer's ability to spread throughout the body.

From Science Daily • Apr. 7, 2026

The report also identified "multiple potentially significant" mutations that may alter the bacterium's behaviour.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

When mutations disrupt this channel, pH regulation is impaired.

From Science Daily • Mar. 26, 2026

Although scientists understand many of the mutations that lead to tumor formation, no single genetic change explains why some cells break away and migrate while others remain in place.

From Science Daily • Mar. 21, 2026

We can sequence human DNA, and identify genetic mutations that cause, for example, diabetes.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton