why is it possible for an amino acid to be specified by more than one kind of codon
there are many different kinds of codons but only 20 amino acids
A codon is a sequence of three nucleotides that codes for a specific amino acid during the process of protein synthesis. There are a total of 64 possible codons, but only 20 amino acids that are needed by the human body. This means that some amino acids are specified by more than one codon.
There are a few reasons why this is possible. First, the genetic code is degenerate or redundant, meaning that multiple codons can code for the same amino acid. For example, both the codons GGU and GGC specify the amino acid glycine. This allows for any mutations in the DNA sequence that result in the substitution of one nucleotide for another in a codon to still result in the same amino acid being specified.
Second, having multiple codons for the same amino acid can prevent errors during the process of transcription and translation. Sometimes errors can occur during DNA replication or transcription that can result in a change in the original codon sequence. If the amino acid is still specified by another codon, then the protein can still be synthesized correctly.
Lastly, having multiple codons for the same amino acid can assist in maintaining the stability of the genetic code. Since not all codons are used to specify amino acids, some codons may be completely free to mutate with no consequences. If more codons code for each amino acid, then there is less chance for a mutation in the codon to result in an entirely new amino acid being specified.
In summary, having multiple codons for the same amino acid allows for genetic flexibility in the face of mutations, and reduces the chance of errors during transcription and translation.
More Answers:
5′ end of DNA and RNA: Its significance in gene expression, protein synthesis, and DNA replication.Chargaff’s Rule: A Fundamental Principle in Genetics and its Significance in DNA Replication and Protein Synthesis.
Codons and Anti-Codons in mRNA and tRNA for Amino Acid Synthesis.