Referring to the degeneracy of the genetic code, explain why alterations to the first base of a codon usually results in more harmful outcomes as compared to alterations to the third base.
Referring to the degeneracy of the genetic code, explain why alterations to the first base of a codon usually results in more harmful outcomes as compared to alterations to the third base.
Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
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ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
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Transcribed Image Text:**Question:**
Referring to the degeneracy of the genetic code, explain why alterations to the first base of a codon usually result in more harmful outcomes as compared to alterations to the third base.
**Explanation:**
The genetic code is described as degenerate because multiple codons can code for the same amino acid. Alterations or mutations at different positions in a codon can have varying effects.
1. **First Base Mutations:**
- Mutations in the first base often lead to a change in the amino acid, potentially altering the protein's function. This is because the first base is less flexible in accommodating variations without changing the resulting amino acid.
2. **Third Base Mutations:**
- Known as "wobble" positions, alterations here often do not change the amino acid due to redundancy in the genetic code. Thus, changes here are less likely to result in harmful effects.
Understanding the impact of base changes in codons is crucial for insights into genetic mutations and their consequences.
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