The set of three-base codons that specify amino acids; it is nearly universal across life.
The code has 64 codons: 61 code for 20 amino acids and 3 are stop signals. It is degenerate (redundant) but unambiguous; each codon specifies only one amino acid. Reading is non-overlapping and starts at AUG.
The near-universal code is evidence for common ancestry; small variants exist in mitochondria.
The set of three-base codons that specify amino acids; it is nearly universal across life.
Genetic Code is one of the 52 topics in Molecular Biology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Translation, Initiation, Elongation, Termination, Transfer RNA.
Genes from humans can be expressed in bacteria, which is the basis of recombinant insulin.
Genetic Code is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Molecular Biology that pair well with it include Central Dogma, DNA Replication, Base Pairing.
The closest topics to Genetic Code are Translation, Initiation, Elongation, Termination, Transfer RNA, Codon. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Genetic Code. To practise the whole of Molecular Biology, use the Molecular Biology quiz.
Genetic Code: The set of three-base codons that specify amino acids; it is nearly universal across life. Translation: Ribosomes read the mRNA codons to assemble amino acids into a protein. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Translation and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Molecular Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.
Ribosomes read the mRNA codons to assemble amino acids into a protein.
🧫 Molecular BiologyThe three stages of translation: assembly at the start codon, chain growth, and release at a stop codon.
🧫 Molecular BiologySmall RNA adaptors with an anticodon that bring the correct amino acid to the ribosome.
🧫 Molecular BiologyA triplet of mRNA bases that codes for one amino acid or a stop signal.
🧫 Molecular Biology