Look at Table 26.3 and find codons for the following amino acids:


a. Val

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that codons are sequences of three nucleotides in mRNA that correspond to specific amino acids or stop signals during protein synthesis.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the genetic code is universal and each amino acid is encoded by one or more codons.
3. Step 3: Refer to Table 26.3, which is a codon table, to find the codons that correspond to the amino acid Valine (Val).
4. Step 4: Identify the codons for Valine. Typically, these are GUU, GUC, GUA, and GUG.
5. Step 5: Verify that these codons are correct by cross-referencing with the codon table to ensure accuracy.

Key Concepts

Codons

Codons are sequences of three nucleotides in DNA or RNA 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 genes into functional proteins. Understanding codons is essential for interpreting how genetic information is expressed in living organisms.

Amino Acids

Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. There are 20 standard amino acids, each with a unique side chain that determines its properties and role in protein structure and function. Valine (Val) is one of these amino acids, and knowing its codons is crucial for understanding how proteins are synthesized.

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, consisting of 64 codons that specify the 20 amino acids and stop signals. Familiarity with the genetic code is vital for interpreting how genetic information leads to the production of specific proteins.