Question

The genetic code is redundant (i.e., most amino acids are coded for by more than one codon). why is this beneficial when it comes to errors in dna replication or transcription?

Answer 1

In the genetic code, threonine is encoded by four different codons, contributing to the genetic code's redundancy which serves as a protective mechanism against mutations in DNA replication or transcription.

Step-by-step explanation:

The genetic code consists of 64 codons, with 61 of those coding for the 20 common amino acids, and the remaining three serving as stop codons. Threonine, for instance, is encoded by four different codons: ACU, ACC, ACA, and ACG. This aspect of the genetic code is known as redundancy or degeneracy, which is beneficial because it provides a buffer against mutations. If an error occurs in DNA replication or transcription that alters a single nucleotide in the codon, in many cases the same amino acid will still be incorporated into the protein, thereby reducing the potential for harmful consequences.

The third position of a codon, frequently deemed the 'wobble position', is particularly notable in this regard. A change at this position often does not change the amino acid that is encoded, which is a crucial feature that enhances the resilience of the organism's genetic information. The redundancy in the genetic code thus serves as a protective mechanism that helps to maintain protein function despite the occurrence of minor genetic errors.