The Triplet of Three Consecutive bases on mRNA The triplet code, also known as the genetic code, is a set of rules that dictate the translation of nucleotide sequences in mRNA into amino acids during protein synthesis. Each triplet of nucleotides, called a codon, corresponds to a specific amino acid or a signal for the termination of protein synthesis.
For example, the codon AUG serves a dual purpose: it signals the start of protein synthesis and codes for the amino acid methionine. Similarly, there are codons like UAA, UAG, and UGA, known as stop codons, which signal the termination of protein synthesis.
Video: The genetic code in terms of codons composed of triplets of bases
The Triplet of Three Consecutive bases on mRNA
Here are some examples of the role of codons in protein synthesis:
- Start Codon: The codon AUG is considered as the start codon, which initiates the process of protein synthesis.
- Stop Codons: Three codons, UAA, UAG, and UGA, are considered as stop codons, which signal the end of protein synthesis.
- Sense Codons: The codons that code for a particular amino acid is known as sense codons. For example, the codon GCA codes for the amino acid alanine.
- Wobble: The third base of the codon can sometimes be flexible, allowing more than one codon to code for the same amino acid. This phenomenon is known as wobble. For example, the amino acid leucine can be coded by the codons CUC, CUA, CUG, and UUA.
- Redundancy: The genetic code is redundant, meaning that multiple codons can code for the same amino acid. This redundancy allows for genetic variations without altering the encoded protein.
- Synonymous codons: The codons that code for the same amino acid are called synonymous codons. For example, the amino acid serine can be coded by the codons UCU, UCC, UCA, and UCG.
In conclusion, the Triplet of Three Consecutive bases on mRNA, also known as codons, is a fundamental concept in molecular biology and genetics. Codons play a vital role in the process of protein synthesis and the universality of the genetic code is one of the most important discoveries in molecular biology. Understanding the role of codons in protein synthesis is crucial for understanding the functioning of living organisms and for the development of new medical treatments.