to develop new physical characteristics because of a permanent change in the genes. These changes can happen naturally or can be produced by the use of chemicals or radiation.

These bacteria have mutated into forms that are resistant to certain drugs. 这些细菌已发生变异，对某些药物产生了抗药性。

to change from one thing or type of thing into another

Jon has mutated from an awkward teenager into a sophisticated young man. 约翰从一个稚嫩的少年变成了一个久经世故的男人。