Question

When we say that the genetic code is degenerate, what do we mean?

1) The genetic code is redundant and multiple codons can code for the same amino acid.
2) The genetic code is non-overlapping and each codon codes for a single amino acid.
3) The genetic code is universal and the same for all organisms.
4) The genetic code is unambiguous and each codon codes for a specific amino acid.

Answer 1

The genetic code is considered degenerate because multiple codons can code for the same amino acid, providing a form of redundancy that protects against errors in protein synthesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

When we say that the genetic code is degenerate, we mean that multiple codons can code for the same amino acid. The concept of degeneracy refers to the redundancy within the genetic code that allows for a single amino acid to be encoded by more than one nucleotide triplet. For example, the amino acid threonine is encoded by the codons ACU, ACC, ACA, and ACG. This redundancy provides a protective measure against mutations, particularly at the third nucleotide position, sometimes referred to as the 'wobble position', which often does not change the resulting amino acid during translation. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: 1) The genetic code is redundant and multiple codons can code for the same amino acid.