Easy
What is a codon in DNA
A codon in DNA is a sequence of three nucleotides (a trinucleotide) that serves as a unit of genetic information.
describe the purpuse of replication in cell's
The purpose of DNA replication in cells is to ensure that each new cell receives a complete and accurate copy of the genetic material.
Identify enzymes involved in replication and describe their roles
DNA Helicase: Unwinds DNA.
Primase: Creates RNA primers.
DNA Polymerase: Synthesizes new DNA strands.
DNA Ligase: Joins DNA fragments.
Topoisomerase: Relieves DNA tension.
Single-Strand Binding Proteins (SSBPs): Stabilize single-stranded DNA.
Exonuclease: Corrects errors
How does the structure of DNA, specifically the arrangement of sugar-phosphate backbones and nitrogenous bases, contribute to its stability and ability to store genetic information?
The sugar-phosphate backbone provides structural support, and the nitrogenous bases encode genetic information
Hypothetically, if the chemical properties of nitrogenous bases in DNA were altered to allow for a different set of base pairing rules (e.g., A-G and C-T), how would this change affect the stability and specificity of DNA replication, and what potential evolutionary advantages or disadvantages might arise from such a system?
It would increase genetic diversity but reduce replication accuracy
what is the basic structure of a nucleotide In DNA
Sugar: Deoxyribose, a five-carbon sugar (pentose) with the molecular formula C5 H10 O4
Phosphate Group: A phosphorus atom bonded to four oxygen atoms, which forms phosphodiester bonds linking nucleotides together
Nitrogenous Base: One of four bases—adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), or guanine (G)—each containing multiple nitrogen atoms
Describe how mRNA works
mRNA is essential for converting genetic information from DNA into proteins, which are vital for cellular functions.
Explain leading strand strand synthesis versus lagging strands synthesis during replication
During DNA replication, leading strand synthesisoccurs continuously in one direction, requiring only one RNA primer. In contrast, lagging strand synthesis is discontinuous, forming short Okazaki fragments that require multiple RNA primers, with DNA ligase sealing the gaps between them.
What is the significance of the specific base pairing rules (A-T and G-C) in DNA replication, and how do these rules ensure genetic fidelity?
They ensure that genetic information is accurately replicated during cell division.
Assuming a scenario where DNA is composed of a different sugar than deoxyribose (e.g., ribose or a hypothetical sugar), how would this alteration affect the structural integrity and function of DNA, particularly in terms of its ability to store genetic information and withstand environmental stressors?
It would reduce stability due to altered backbone flexibility.
explain complementary base pairing in dna
This complementary base pairing is crucial for maintaining genetic integrity and facilitating genetic processes such as replication and transcription.
Explain how tRNA,mRNA interact during translating
The interaction between tRNA and mRNA, facilitated by the ribosome, ensures that the genetic information encoded in mRNA is translated into a specific sequence of amino acids, ultimately forming a protein
What is the primary function of the cap and poly tail in mRNA, and how do these modifications affect mRNA stability and translation efficiency?
They protect mRNA from degradation and enhance translation initiation.
Explain how the chemical properties of the nitrogenous bases in DNA contribute to the specificity of base pairing and the stability of the double helix structure.
The specific pairing (A-T and G-C) is due to hydrogen bonding, which stabilizes the double helix.
Theoretically, if DNA were to incorporate additional nitrogenous bases beyond the standard four (A, T, C, G), how might these new bases be integrated into the genetic code, and what potential benefits or challenges would arise from expanding the genetic alphabet in this way?
New bases would increase genetic diversity but complicate replication
What are the four nitrogenous bases found in DNA?
Adenine, Guanine, Cytosine, and Thymine
Define anticodon and codon, explain their significance in protein synthesis
codons and anticodons are crucial for protein synthesis, ensuring accurate amino acid assembly through precise pairing, which is vital for producing functional proteins.
How do the chemical properties of the nitrogenous bases in DNA contribute to the stability and specificity of base pairing, and what would be the consequences if these properties were altered?
The properties ensure specific base pairing, maintaining genetic stability and integrity
Describe the role of nucleotides in forming the DNA molecule and how their structure contributes to the overall genetic code.
Nucleotides contain nitrogenous bases that encode genetic information and are linked by sugar-phosphate groups.
Hypothetically, if DNA replication were to occur in a non-aqueous environment (e.g., in a solvent other than water), how would this affect the chemical properties and interactions of DNA components, such as base pairing and sugar-phosphate backbone stability, and what implications might this have for the origins of life on other planets?
It would destabilize the sugar-phosphate backbone due to altered solvent interactions.