Question

Which of the following factors ensures that coding for the same amino acid, such as methionine and valine, using identical anticodons remains non-ambiguous?

• A. Redundancy of the genetic code.
• B. Degeneracy of the genetic code.
• C. Complementary base pairing between codons and anticodons.
• D. The presence of start and stop codons in the mRNA.

Hint:

Degeneracy of the genetic code allows multiple codons to code for the same amino acid. This is a key feature that ensures the robustness and flexibility of the genetic code in protein synthesis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Phase 1: Grasping the genetic code.
The genetic code dictates how mRNA sequences are translated into proteins by cells. Each amino acid corresponds to one or more codons.
Phase 2: Defining degeneracy in the genetic code.
Genetic code degeneracy means multiple codons can specify the same amino acid. For instance, Methionine has one codon (AUG), while Valine has four (GUU, GUC, GUA, GUG). Crucially, each codon translates to only one amino acid, preventing translation errors.
Phase 3: How degeneracy prevents ambiguity.
The genetic code's degeneracy allows multiple codons for a single amino acid without causing translation conflicts. This ensures accurate protein synthesis by avoiding any ambiguity in codon-to-amino acid assignments.