Not all mutations result in a change to the amino acid sequence of the encoded polypeptide. Give an explanation.

The first reason is that the genetic code is redundant. This means that even though different codons have different matching t-RNAs and therefore usually different amino acids, some codons are matched with t-RNAs carrying the same amino acid. A single amino acid may be coded for by more than one codon. In consequence, if mutations in the DNA result in a codon change in the RNA, this does not necessarily imply an amino acid change of the encoded polypeptide. The same amino acid could be coded for by the original and the mutated codon.
Secondly, mRNA is made up of introns and exons. Only exons are used during translation and introns are spliced out prior to translation. If a mutation takes place in the DNA that will then be spliced out as an intron, this mutation has no effect on the amino acid sequence of the encoded polypeptide.

Answered by Luisa B. Biology tutor

17040 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the process of DNA replication.


What is the process of the virus HIV replication?


Describe the process of the light-independent stage of photosynthesis and the effect on it of decreasing light intensity.


Describe the flow of blood through the heart


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences