Genetic code
Genetic code
The Genetic code (/dʒɪˈnɛtɪk koʊd/) is the set of rules used by living cells to translate information encoded within genetic material (DNA or mRNA sequences) into proteins.
Etymology
The term "genetic code" was first coined by the molecular biologist Francis Crick in 1962. The word "genetic" is derived from the Greek word "genesis" meaning "origin", and "code" comes from the Latin "codex", meaning "book".
Description
Genetic code is used in the process of protein synthesis. It is a set of three-letter combinations of nucleotides called codons, each of which corresponds to a specific amino acid or stop signal. The genetic code is nearly universal, with few exceptions primarily among some microbes.
Related terms
- Codon: A sequence of three DNA or RNA nucleotides that corresponds with a specific amino acid or stop signal during protein synthesis.
- Amino acid: Organic compounds that combine to form proteins.
- Protein synthesis: The process in which cells build proteins.
- Nucleotide: The basic building blocks of DNA and RNA.
- DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, a self-replicating material which is present in nearly all living organisms as the main constituent of chromosomes. It is the carrier of genetic information.
- RNA: Ribonucleic acid, a nucleic acid present in all living cells. Its principal role is to act as a messenger carrying instructions from DNA for controlling the synthesis of proteins.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Genetic code
- Wikipedia's article - Genetic code
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