The term "mutations" refers to:

A. An organism that is capable of causing disease: This describes a pathogen, not a mutation. B. Permanent inheritable changes to DNA: Mutations are alterations in the genetic code (DNA) that can be passed on to offspring. C. A substance that can inhibit the growth of bacteria: This describes an antibiotic, not a mutation. D. The severity of a disease that an organism is able to cause: This describes virulence, not a mutation.