In an experiment to decipher the genetic code, a poly-AC mRNA (ACACACAC...) is synthesized. What pattern of amino acids would appear if this sequence were to be translated by a mechanism that reads the genetic code as

a triplet without overlaps?

Key Concepts

Genetic Code

The genetic code is a set of rules that defines how the sequence of nucleotides in mRNA is translated into amino acids. It consists of codons, which are groups of three nucleotides that correspond to specific amino acids or stop signals during protein synthesis. Understanding the genetic code is essential for predicting the amino acid sequence from an mRNA strand.

mRNA Translation

mRNA translation is the process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins based on the sequence of codons in mRNA. During translation, the ribosome reads the mRNA in sets of three nucleotides (codons) and matches each codon with the appropriate amino acid, forming a polypeptide chain. This process is crucial for gene expression and the production of functional proteins.

Triplet Codon Reading

Triplet codon reading refers to the mechanism by which the ribosome interprets the mRNA sequence in groups of three nucleotides, known as codons, without overlapping. This means that each codon is read independently, allowing for a clear and systematic translation of the genetic information into a corresponding sequence of amino acids. This method ensures that the correct amino acids are incorporated into the growing polypeptide chain.