TRIPLET CODON Meaning and
Definition
-
A triplet codon refers to a sequence of three nucleotides in a DNA or RNA molecule that encodes a specific amino acid. In the genetic code, each codon corresponds to a particular amino acid or serves as a start or stop signal for protein synthesis. There are 64 different triplet codons in total, out of which 61 encode for specific amino acids, while the remaining three serve as stop codons.
The genetic code is universal, meaning that the same codons encode the same amino acids in all organisms, from bacteria to humans. For instance, the triplet codon AUG serves as the start codon in most organisms, initiating protein synthesis, while stop codons, such as UAA, UAG, and UGA, signal the end of translation.
During the process of protein synthesis, messenger RNA (mRNA) is transcribed from DNA and carries the codon sequence to the ribosomes, where tRNA molecules recognize and bind to the mRNA codons. tRNA molecules carry specific amino acids, ensuring that the correct sequence is followed during protein synthesis. This allows for the assembly of amino acids in the correct order, as dictated by the triplet codons, resulting in the formation of a functional protein.
Understanding the triplet codon sequence is vital in deciphering genetic information, studying gene expression, and investigating genetic variations or mutations that may disrupt the proper functioning of genes and proteins.
Common Misspellings for TRIPLET CODON
- rriplet codon
- friplet codon
- griplet codon
- yriplet codon
- 6riplet codon
- 5riplet codon
- teiplet codon
- tdiplet codon
- tfiplet codon
- ttiplet codon
- t5iplet codon
- t4iplet codon
- truplet codon
- trjplet codon
- trkplet codon
- troplet codon
- tr9plet codon
- tr8plet codon
- triolet codon
- trillet codon
Etymology of TRIPLET CODON
The etymology of the word "triplet codon" comes from the combination of two distinct terms: triplet and codon.
The term "triplet" refers to a group or set of three elements. In molecular biology, it specifically refers to a set of three nucleotides in DNA or RNA that codes for a specific amino acid (the building blocks of proteins) or serves as a start or stop signal for protein synthesis.
The term "codon" refers to a specific sequence of three nucleotides that corresponds to a particular amino acid or stop signal. Codons are found in messenger RNA (mRNA) and are read during the process of translation to determine the amino acid sequence of a protein.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
