The genetic code is the set of rules by which information encoded in DNA or RNA strands is translated into proteins.
What is translation in terms of genetics?
Translation is the process in which cellular ribosomes create proteins using the genetic information transcribed from DNA to RNA.
What are codons?
Codons are three-nucleotide sequences in mRNA that specify individual amino acids to be incorporated into a protein.
Where does translation occur in a cell?
Translation occurs in the cytoplasm of a cell on ribosomes.
What is the start codon?
The start codon is the specific codon (AUG) that initiates protein synthesis.
What are the three stop codons?
The three stop codons are UAA, UAG, and UGA.
What is an anticodon?
An anticodon is a three-nucleotide sequence in a transfer RNA (tRNA) molecule that binds to a complementary codon in mRNA during translation.
What is the role of transfer RNA (tRNA) in translation?
Transfer RNA (tRNA) carries amino acids to the ribosomes during translation and ensures they are added in the correct sequence as specified by the codons.
What is a mutation in the context of genetic code?
A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence, which can alter the genetic code and potentially impact protein function.
What is the difference between sense codons and nonsense codons?
Sense codons encode amino acids, while nonsense codons signal the end of protein synthesis.
What is the relationship between genetic code and protein synthesis?
The genetic code provides the instructions to build proteins during protein synthesis.
What are ribosomes made of?
Ribosomes are composed of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins.
What happens during the elongation phase of translation?
During elongation, amino acids are added one by one to the growing polypeptide chain according to the codons on the mRNA.
What is the role of messenger RNA (mRNA) in translation?
Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes for protein synthesis.
What is the importance of the genetic code in living organisms?
The genetic code is essential for the synthesis of proteins, which are crucial for the structure and function of cells and organisms.