Microbial Genetics: Protein Synthesis Process

Gene

Segment of DNA encoding specific protein instructions.

mRNA

Messenger RNA that carries genetic information.

Transcription

Process of copying DNA to mRNA.

Translation

Process of synthesizing proteins from mRNA.

Codon

Three-nucleotide sequence coding for an amino acid.

Anticodon

Three-nucleotide sequence on tRNA complementary to codon.

AUG

Start codon initiating protein synthesis.

Stop Codons

UAA, UAG, UGA signal termination of translation.

tRNA

Transfer RNA that brings amino acids to ribosome.

Ribosome

Molecular machine facilitating protein synthesis.

Peptide Bond

Covalent bond linking amino acids in proteins.

Polypeptide Chain

Chain of amino acids forming a protein.

Mutation

Change in DNA sequence affecting protein function.

Silent Mutation

Mutation that does not alter protein sequence.

Missense Mutation

Mutation causing amino acid substitution in protein.

Mutagens

Agents increasing mutation frequency in DNA.

DNA Polymerase

Enzyme responsible for DNA replication.

Thymine Dimers

DNA lesions caused by UV light exposure.

Degeneracy of Genetic Code

Multiple codons coding for the same amino acid.

Active Transport

Energy-dependent process moving amino acids into cells.

Promoter

DNA sequence where transcription begins.

Terminator

DNA sequence signaling the end of transcription.

Nitrogen Base Sequence

Order of nucleotides determining genetic information.

Gene Expression

Process of converting gene information into proteins.