The Genetic Code Essay Example

The genetic code includes three codons consisting of three mRNA bases each, which encode specific amino acids. 2) Each sequence of three codons only specifies one amino acid, but one amino acid can be specified by multiple codons. 3) In this activity, letters represent amino acids and will be joined together to form sentences instead of proteins. 4) The start codon AUG establishes the reading frame and signals the beginning of translation in the genetic code. 5) When AUG appears at the beginning of the sequence in this activity, it indicates translation's start and requires capitalizing the following letter indicated by the codon. 6) Please note that AUG also codes for an amino acid. Therefore, if you see AUG in the middle of the sequence, use it to represent the letter indicated onthe Codon - Amino Acid Dictionary provided. Consult this dictionary to determine which message is coded for by each codon (remembering that codons are mRNA bases). Once completed, examine the given letters below to uncoverthe hidden message.Finally,revealinthe space providedbelowthewritten DNA,messenger RNA,and resulting protein(sentence).DNA Fragment # : _____ Deoxyribonucleic acid: messenger RNA (codons): Protein (sentence): Mistakes Happen The DNA sequence determines the amino acid sequence in a protein. Mutations are changes in the DNA, which can result in changes to the protein. Investigate the effect of base pair mutations on your protein by making a mutation to your DNA code. Choose any base except the first three and randomly change it. Transcribe and translate the mutated DNA as before. Answer Conclusion question 1.
Make another mutation by randomly deleting one base from your original DNA strand, excluding the first three bases. Remember that when

reading groups of three, if there is an omission, continue reading from the next group of three in the sequence. Transcribe and interpret this mutated DNA into messenger RNA (codons), which will then translate into Protein (sentence). Sickle cell disease is caused by a mutated gene affecting hemoglobin, a protein responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body in red blood cells.The analysis of the first seven amino acids in both normal and sickle cell hemoglobin genes will determine the specific mutation responsible for sickle cell anemia. We will utilize a codon chart, also known as a genetic code dictionary, to match messenger RNA sequences with their corresponding amino acids. It is important to note that the codon chart lists codons rather than anticodons, and transfer RNA molecules are responsible for transporting amino acids. To effectively use the codon chart, begin by identifying the first mRNA base of the desired codon in the far left column. Next, locate the appropriate row based on this first mRNA base and identify your second position column according to your second mRNA base. Finally, find your third position row based on your third mRNA base.