8.4 SG Flashcards
(11 cards)
Define codon
A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that corresponds to a specific amino acid or stop signal in protein synthesis.
Define anticodon
A sequence of three nucleotides in tRNA that is complementary to a codon in mRNA.
What is translation?
The process by which ribosomes synthesize proteins using the information encoded in mRNA.
What is a start codon?
The codon that signals the beginning of translation, typically AUG.
What is a stop codon?
A codon that signals the end of translation, such as UAA, UAG, or UGA.
Define positive transcription factor
A protein that increases the likelihood of transcription of a particular gene.
Define negative transcription factor
A protein that decreases the likelihood of transcription of a particular gene.
What does affinity refer to in a biological context?
The strength of the interaction between a transcription factor and its target DNA sequence.
Define mutation
A change in the DNA sequence that can affect gene function.
Use the codon chart to translate the mRNA sequence AUGCCGUA into an amino acid sequence.
Methionine - Proline - Valine
Explain gene regulation and how protein production is affected by positive/negative transcription factors.
Gene regulation involves mechanisms that increase or decrease the expression of genes, influenced by positive transcription factors that enhance and negative transcription factors that inhibit transcription.
