What is the genetic code and how is it read? The genetic code is a set of rules that determines how DNA or RNA sequences are translated into functional proteins. The code specifies the respective amino acid for a triplet of nucleotides, called a codon. The genetic code is universal, meaning it is the same for all living organisms, with a few minor variations. The code is read in the ribosome, which is the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis. During translation, the ribosome reads the mRNA sequence in groups of three nucleotides (codons) and matches each codon to the corresponding amino acid or signal for starting or stopping protein synthesis. Amino acids are assembled in the order dictated by the mRNA, forming a polypeptide chain that folds into a functional protein. The genetic code consists of 64 possible codons, of which 61 are used to specify the 20 common amino acids. Three codons serve as signals for stopping protein synthesis, known as stop codons. These stop codons are UAA, UAG, and UGA. The elucidation of the genetic code is one of the most significant discoveries in the field of molecular biology. Understanding the code and its functions is crucial for basic research in genetics and for the development of new treatments for genetic disorders. References: 1. Crick, F. H. (1968). The origin of the genetic code. Journal of molecular biology, 38(3), 367-379. 2. Nirenberg, M. W., & Matthaei, J. H. (1961). The dependence of cell-free protein synthesis in E. coli upon naturally occurring or synthetic polyribonucleotides. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 47(10), 1588-1602. 3. Lodish, H., Berk, A., Zipursky, L. S., Matsudaira, P., Baltimore, D., & Darnell, J. (2000). Molecular cell biology (4th ed.). W. H. Freeman.
