Sinister has used his long life and transformative abilities to study and manipulated mutant DNA and bloodlines across generations.
After he discovered and awakened the powerful mutant External known as Apocalypse, he was given power and long life and became the mad scientist 'Mister Sinister.' When his power ultimately consumed and killed him, Essex created four clones who awakened upon his death and went out into the world: The original Nathan Essex was a geneticist who studied evolution.
Who Are the Four Clones of Mister Sinister? (Photo: Marvel Comics)