Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Capable of inducing mutation: Describes something that has the ability to cause a permanent change in the genetic material (DNA) of an organism. This term is used mainly for external or extracellular factors.

Usage

• The adjective "mutagenic" is used to describe agents or processes that can cause genetic mutations. It is a technical term commonly used in biology, genetics, toxicology, and environmental science.
• It typically modifies nouns referring to agents (e.g., , , ).

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The chemical was found to be highly mutagenic in laboratory tests.
  • Exposure to mutagenic radiation can increase the risk of genetic disorders.
  • Scientists are studying the mutagenic properties of the new compound.

Advanced Usage

• "Mutagenic activity": Refers to the measurable ability of an agent to cause mutations.
  • The study aimed to quantify the mutagenic activity of the industrial pollutant.
• "Mutagenic agent" / "Mutagen": A specific substance or physical agent that causes mutations.
  • Some pesticides are known to be potent mutagenic agents.

Variants and Related Words

• Mutagen (noun): An agent, such as radiation or a chemical substance, that causes genetic mutation.
  • Ultraviolet light is a common environmental mutagen.
• Mutagenicity (noun): The capacity or property of being mutagenic.
  • The mutagenicity of the substance was confirmed by the Ames test.
• Mutate (verb): To undergo or cause to undergo mutation.
• Mutation (noun): The process or result of a change in genetic structure.

Synonyms

• Genotoxic: Damaging to DNA and capable of causing mutations or cancer. (Note: While closely related, "genotoxic" is a broader term that includes mutagenicity.)
• Carcinogenic: Causing cancer. (Note: Many mutagenic agents are also carcinogenic, but the terms are not identical; not all mutagens cause cancer, and not all carcinogens are mutagenic.)

Related Phrases and Collocations

• Mutagenic effect: The impact or consequence of an agent that causes mutation.
  • The long-term mutagenic effects of the chemical are still unknown.
• Mutagenic potential: The inherent capability of a substance to cause mutations.
  • All new pharmaceuticals are screened for their mutagenic potential.

Adjective

1. capable of inducing mutation (used mainly of extracellular factors such as X-rays or chemical pollution)