Question

Which of the following factors ensures that coding for the same amino acid, such as methionine and valine, using identical anticodons remains non-ambiguous?

• A. Redundancy of the genetic code.
• B. Degeneracy of the genetic code.
• C. Complementary base pairing between codons and anticodons.
• D. The presence of start and stop codons in the mRNA.

Hint:

Degeneracy of the genetic code allows multiple codons to code for the same amino acid. This is a key feature that ensures the robustness and flexibility of the genetic code in protein synthesis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the genetic code. 
The genetic code is the set of rules by which information encoded in mRNA sequences is translated into proteins by living cells. Each amino acid is specified by one or more codons. 
Step 2: What is degeneracy of the genetic code? 
Degeneracy of the genetic code refers to the phenomenon where multiple codons can encode the same amino acid. For example: Methionine is encoded by only one codon: AUG. Valine is encoded by four codons: GUU, GUC, GUA, and GUG. Despite the redundancy, each codon specifies only one amino acid, ensuring no ambiguity in translation. 
Step 3: How degeneracy avoids ambiguity. 
The degeneracy of the genetic code ensures that coding for the same amino acid remains non-ambiguous by allowing multiple codons to correspond to the same amino acid. This is achieved without conflicting assignments for a given codon. Degeneracy of the genetic code ensures precise translation, avoiding ambiguity in protein synthesis.