A genetic mutation is an alteration in the DNA sequence, which may fundamentally alter or prevent the correct functioning of the protein encoded by that sequence. Mutations can be inherited, and also occur randomly in individual cells throughout the body.
A genetic variant is a polymorphism, which is simply a DNA sequence that appears at the same location within the genome of each individual, but who’s exact sequence varies from person to person. Genetic variants are inherited, and the genetic variants we carry makes each of us genetically unique. Most genetic variants do not increase or decrease an individual’s chances of developing a disease, although some variants have been associated with increased susceptibility to certain diseases of aging like cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.