WordLens

mutate

1 of 1verb
/ˈmju.ˌteɪt/
Forms:mutates,mutating,mutated,mutated
1

to cause genetic changes

transitive
  • Exposure to radiation can potentially mutate cells and lead to genetic changes.
  • The scientist used a mutagenic substance to intentionally mutate the bacteria for research purposes.
  • The ongoing study aims to understand how certain chemicals may mutate genes and influence health outcomes.
  • The scientists attempted to mutate the genes of the fruit fly for genetic research.
  • The goal of the experiment was to mutate the cells and observe the resulting changes in the organisms.
2

to experience genetic changes

  • Over time, certain organisms may mutate to adapt to environmental pressures.
  • In response to environmental factors, organisms living in a particular habitat may naturally mutate.
  • Genetic material can spontaneously mutate during replication.
  • The DNA of a population can slowly mutate, contributing to evolutionary processes.
  • The influenza virus tends to mutate regularly, making it a challenge to predict and prevent.