The DNA 3' to 5' template sequence CUC codes for the amino acid Leucine during translation.
The DNA sequence CUC, when transcribed and translated, corresponds to the amino acid leucine. In the genetic code, each three-nucleotide sequence, known as a codon, corresponds to a specific amino acid or serves as a signal to start or stop protein synthesis. In this case, CUC is recognized as a codon for leucine. During translation, transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules with the complementary anticodon bring the appropriate amino acid (leucine, in this instance) to the growing polypeptide chain.
This process occurs in the ribosomes, where the genetic information in DNA is decoded into a functional protein. Understanding the genetic code is fundamental to deciphering how DNA sequences dictate the synthesis of proteins, which are essential for the structure and function of living organisms.