U3 AOS 1: Genes

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Gene

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A segment of DNA that is involved in producing a polypeptide chain; it can include regions preceding and following the coding DNA as well as introns between the exons.

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Genetic code

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The set of rules by which information encoded in genetic material (DNA or RNA sequences) is translated into proteins by living cells.

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Triplet

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A sequence of three nucleotides in DNA that codes for a specific amino acid or termination signal; the basic unit of the genetic code.

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Codon

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A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that specifies the addition of a specific amino acid into a protein or signals the termination of protein synthesis.

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Anti-codon

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A sequence of three bases in a transfer RNA molecule that pairs with the complementary codon in messenger RNA during protein synthesis.

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Start codon (AUG)

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The codon that signals the start of translation and the amino acid methionine in eukaryotes.

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Stop codon (UAA, UGA, UAG)

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Codons that signal the termination of protein synthesis.

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Promoter

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A region of DNA that initiates transcription of a particular gene.

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TATA box

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A DNA sequence that indicates where a genetic sequence can be read and decoded.

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RNA polymerase

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An enzyme that synthesizes RNA from a DNA template during transcription.