Final answer:
The three-letter code for lysine is Lys, and it is represented by the letter K in one-letter abbreviations for amino acids. Lysine codons are AAA and AAG, dictating its addition to proteins during synthesis. The term 'Lysine cartel' refers to an illegal agreement between lysine producers to fix prices, uncovered by the FBI in the 1990s.
Step-by-step explanation:
The three-letter code for the amino acid lysine is Lys. In protein sequencing, a one-letter abbreviation system is also used where lysine is represented by the letter K. The amino acid sequence of a protein is determined by the sequence of nucleotide triplets in mRNA known as codons. Each codon specifies a particular amino acid; for lysine, the codons are AAA and AAG. For example, if AAG appears in mRNA, a tRNA with an anticodon of UUC binds to it, allowing lysine to be added to the growing polypeptide chain during protein synthesis.
In the context of genetic code expansion, engineered pyrrolysyl-tRNA synthetases have been used to incorporate lysine derivatives into proteins in mammalian cells, as referred to in the research by Mukai et al. (2008). The genetic code's deciphering, including identifying the codons for lysine, earned Nirenberg, Khorana, and Holley the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1968.
The Lysine cartel refers to an illegal agreement between major lysine producers in the 1990s to fix prices and control the market. Lysine is an essential amino acid used as a feed additive to promote the growth of livestock. The cartel was uncovered by the FBI, which placed wiretaps and brought the conspiracy to light.