Provide the amino acid corresponding to each of the following codons:


a. UUG

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the genetic code table that maps codons to amino acids.
2. Locate the codon 'UUG' in the genetic code table.
3. Determine the amino acid that corresponds to the codon 'UUG'.
4. Note that 'UUG' is one of the codons for the amino acid Leucine (Leu).
5. Understand that multiple codons can code for the same amino acid due to the redundancy of the genetic code.

Key Concepts

Codons

Codons are sequences of three nucleotides in mRNA that correspond to specific amino acids or stop signals during protein synthesis. Each codon is part of the genetic code, which translates the information encoded in DNA into functional proteins. Understanding codons is essential for interpreting how genetic information is expressed.

Amino Acids

Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. There are 20 standard amino acids, each defined by its unique side chain and encoded by specific codons. The sequence and composition of amino acids in a protein determine its structure and function, making them crucial for biological processes.

Genetic Code

The genetic code is a set of rules that defines how sequences of nucleotides in DNA and RNA are translated into amino acids. It is universal among almost all organisms and consists of 64 codons that specify the 20 amino acids, including start and stop signals. Understanding the genetic code is vital for molecular biology and genetics.