6.2.1

The Genetic Code

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The Genetic Code

The genetic code is the combination of triplet codes (codons) in the genome. There are three important features of the genetic code:

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Degenerate

  • The genetic code is degenerate.
  • Some amino acids are encoded by more than one codon (e.g. tyrosine is encoded by TAT and TAC).
    • There are 64 possible triplet codons and only 20 amino acids.
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Non-overlapping

  • The genetic code is non-overlapping.
  • The non-overlapping nature of DNA means that there is no overlap between triplet codes.
  • Each triplet code is separate from the other triplets in the chromosome.
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Universal

  • The genetic code is universal.
  • The same four bases (A, T, G, C) are used in the DNA of every organism.
  • The same codons encode the same amino acids in every organism.
  • Codons in DNA are transcribed into mRNA and translated into amino acids in every organism.

Jump to other topics

1Cell Structure

2Biological Molecules

3Enzymes

4Cell Membranes & Transport

5The Mitotic Cell Cycle

6Nucleic Acids & Protein Synthesis

7Transport in Plants

8Transport in Mammals

9Gas Exchange

10Infectious Diseases

11Immunity

12Energy & Respiration (A2 Only)

13Photosynthesis (A2 Only)

14Homeostasis (A2 Only)

15Control & Coordination (A2 Only)

16Inherited Change (A2 Only)

17Selection & Evolution (A2 Only)

18Classification & Conservation (A2 Only)

19Genetic Technology (A2 Only)

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