BIOM1050/BIOM1070 Module 1: Cell Biology DNA, Protein & the Central Dogma

Flashcards based on key concepts from the lecture notes related to cell biology, DNA, protein synthesis, and the central dogma.

Central Dogma

The process by which DNA is transcribed into RNA, which is then translated into protein.

Transcription

The process of copying a segment of DNA into RNA.

Translation

The process by which ribosomes convert mRNA into a polypeptide chain.

Ribosome

A complex of RNA and proteins that synthesizes proteins by translating mRNA.

Amino Acid

The building blocks of proteins, consisting of a central carbon atom attached to an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a variable side chain.

Peptide Bond

The covalent bond formed between amino acids during protein synthesis.

Codon

A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid.

Anticodon

A sequence of three nucleotides in tRNA that is complementary to a codon in mRNA.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that can lead to changes in protein function.

Point Mutation

A mutation that affects a single nucleotide in the DNA sequence.

Frameshift Mutation

A mutation caused by the deletion or insertion of nucleotides that alters the reading frame of the genetic code.

Primary Structure

The linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

Secondary Structure

Regions of the protein that fold into alpha helices or beta sheets.

Tertiary Structure

The overall three-dimensional shape of a protein formed by interactions between R-groups.

Quaternary Structure

A protein structure that consists of more than one polypeptide chain.

tRNA (transfer RNA)

Molecules that transport specific amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis.

Genetic Code

The set of rules that defines how the information in mRNA is translated into proteins.

DNA Polymerase

An enzyme that synthesizes DNA molecules from nucleotides.

Release Factor

A protein that binds to the ribosome to terminate translation when a stop codon is reached.

Mutant Protein

A protein that has undergone a mutation, potentially altering its function.

Enzyme

A protein that acts as a catalyst to speed up biochemical reactions.