Final answer:
The DNA code is transcribed into messenger RNA through a process called transcription. The mRNA is then used by ribosomes to synthesize proteins based on the genetic code.
Step-by-step explanation:
The DNA code is translated into messenger RNA through a process called transcription. During transcription, the DNA sequence is used as a template to synthesize a complementary RNA sequence. The RNA sequence is identical to the DNA sequence except that uracil (U) replaces thymine (T). For example, if the DNA strand has the sequence 5'-AATTGCGC-3', the complementary RNA sequence would be 3'-UUAACGCG-5'.
The synthesized messenger RNA (mRNA) then interacts with ribosomes and other cellular machinery during translation. The mRNA is read in sets of three bases called codons, with each codon coding for a specific amino acid. The ribosomes use the information encoded in the mRNA to string amino acids together and synthesize a protein.
For instance, a DNA sequence ACGGGTAAGG would be transcribed into the mRNA sequence UGCCCAUUCC. The mRNA then carries the genetic code to the ribosomes, where it is used to direct the synthesis of a protein.