The genetic code is a set of rules that translates DNA sequences into amino acid sequences, which ultimately form proteins. This code is made up of codons, sequences of three nucleotides that specify particular amino acids.
Key Features of the Genetic Code:
- Triplet Code: Each codon consists of three nucleotides.
- Universal: The genetic code is nearly universal across different organisms.
- Degenerate: More than one codon can specify the same amino acid.
Mutations and Their Effects:
- Point Mutations: A single nucleotide change can alter the amino acid sequence.
- Frameshift Mutations: Insertions or deletions of nucleotides can disrupt the reading frame, changing the amino acid sequence.
- Effects: Mutations can be silent, harmful, or beneficial, depending on the context
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For example, a point mutation in the beta globin gene can cause sickle cell anemia by changing glutamate to valine
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