Question

Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins. Be sure to describe the steps in the process of protein synthesis.

Answer 1

The structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins through a process called protein synthesis. Protein synthesis is a complex process involving several steps.

First, the DNA molecule is transcribed into a molecule of messenger RNA (mRNA). During transcription, a section of the DNA is copied onto the mRNA molecule.

Next, the mRNA molecule is translated into a sequence of amino acids. This translation occurs inside ribosomes, which are small organelles located in the cytoplasm of the cell. During translation, the mRNA molecule is read in three-letter codons, and each codon codes for a specific amino acid.

Finally, the sequence of amino acids is linked together to form a protein. This is accomplished by enzymes called peptidyl transferases, which join the amino acids together in a specific order.

The structure of the protein is determined by the sequence of amino acids, which is in turn determined by the sequence of codons in the mRNA molecule. Since the sequence of codons is determined by the structure of the DNA, the structure of the protein is ultimately determined by the structure of the DNA.

Answer 2

DNA is the genetic material that contains the instructions for the synthesis of proteins. Proteins are essential for the proper function of cells and are responsible for a wide range of functions, such as structural support, enzymatic activity, and cellular signaling. The structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins through a process called protein synthesis.

Protein synthesis occurs in two main steps: transcription and translation.

Transcription is the process by which a specific segment of DNA, called a gene, is copied into a complementary RNA molecule. This RNA molecule is called messenger RNA (mRNA).

Translation is the process by which the sequence of nucleotides in the mRNA molecule is translated into the sequence of amino acids in a protein. This process occurs on ribosomes, which are the protein-synthesizing organelles of the cell.