A short RNA molecule was isolated that demonstrated a hyperchromic shift (see Chapter 10), indicating secondary structure. Its sequence was determined to be

     5'-AGGCGCCGACUCUACU-3'

If the molecule were an internal part of a message, what amino acid sequence would result from it following translation? (Refer to the code chart in Figure 13.7.)

Verified step by step guidance

1. span>Step 1: Identify the RNA sequence provided: 5'-AGGCGCCGACUCUACU-3'.</span
2. span>Step 2: Determine the reading frame for translation. Since the sequence is given as an internal part of a message, assume it starts from the first nucleotide.</span
3. span>Step 3: Divide the RNA sequence into codons (groups of three nucleotides): AGG, CGC, CGA, CUC, UAC.</span
4. span>Step 4: Use the genetic code chart to translate each codon into its corresponding amino acid. For example, AGG codes for Arginine (Arg), CGC for Arginine (Arg), and so on.</span
5. span>Step 5: Write down the sequence of amino acids obtained from the translation of the RNA sequence.</span

Key Concepts

RNA Structure and Function

RNA molecules can adopt complex secondary structures due to base pairing within the strand. This secondary structure is crucial for their function, influencing processes like translation. The hyperchromic shift mentioned indicates that the RNA has regions of double-strandedness, which can affect how it interacts with ribosomes during protein synthesis.

Genetic Code and Translation

The genetic code is a set of rules that defines how nucleotide sequences in mRNA are translated into amino acids. Each group of three nucleotides, known as a codon, corresponds to a specific amino acid. Understanding the codon chart is essential for determining the amino acid sequence that results from a given RNA sequence.

mRNA and Codon Reading Frame

The reading frame of an mRNA sequence determines how codons are grouped and read during translation. It is crucial to start reading from the correct nucleotide to ensure the correct amino acid sequence is produced. In this case, the RNA sequence must be analyzed from the 5' to 3' direction to identify the corresponding amino acids accurately.