Central Dogma, Proteins, and Mutations

These flashcards cover essential terms and concepts related to the central dogma of molecular biology, protein synthesis, and genetic mutations.

Codon

A combination of three mRNA nucleotides that specifies one amino acid.

Ribosome

A complex made up of rRNA and proteins; the site where translation occurs.

AUG

The start codon that codes for Methionine and establishes the reading frame.

tRNA (Transfer RNA)

Molecules that carry amino acids to ribosomes during translation, containing an anticodon that complements the mRNA codon.

STOP codons

mRNA codons UAA, UAG, or UGA that do not encode an amino acid and terminate translation.

Peptide Bond

The bond formed between amino acids during polypeptide synthesis.

5’ UTR (Untranslated Region)

The region of mRNA before the start codon AUG that is not translated into protein.

Elongation

The stage in translation where the polypeptide chain is formed as amino acids are added.

Mutations

Changes in the DNA sequence that can arise during replication or due to environmental influences.

Primary Structure of Proteins

The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

Secondary Structure of Proteins

Folding patterns in proteins formed by hydrogen bonds, including alpha-helices and beta-pleated sheets.

Tertiary Structure of Proteins

The final folded shape of a protein formed by interactions between side chains (R groups).

Quaternary Structure of Proteins

The structure formed when two or more polypeptide chains join together.

Lactase persistence

The ability of some human populations to continue digesting lactose into adulthood due to a mutation.

Sickle cell disease

A genetic disorder caused by a mutation that changes Glu to Val in hemoglobin, affecting its shape and function.

Cystic fibrosis

A genetic condition caused by mutations in the CFTR gene that disrupts the normal transport of chloride ions across cell membranes.