The genetic code is a triplet code, meaning
that each set of three nucleotides, or codon, along the sequence of an mRNA
molecule is translated into one amino acid. The codons
shown on this table are almost universal, and are used in protein synthesis
by nearly all organisms, from bacteria to humans. For example, the mRNA
nucleotide sequence AUG is translated into methionine, GCU is translated into
alanine, and so on. Since 64 different codons are
possible, but only 20 amino acids exist, some amino acids are represented by
more than one nucleotide sequence. The methionine codon AUG is most often
responsible for initiation of protein synthesis, while translation is usually
terminated by the codons UAG, UAA, or UGA. To
identify the amino acid coded by a particular nucleotide sequence using this
chart, first choose the letter from the left-hand flashing box that
represents the first base of the codon. Then choose the second base from the
top flashing box and find the white box that lines
up with both letters. Finally, choose the third base from the set of letters
in the right-hand flashing box that lines up with the white box and match
your codon to the correct amino acid.
For Questions and
Suggestions, contact the Halo-Ed
Team