STOP CODON Meaning and
Definition
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A stop codon, also known as a termination codon or nonsense codon, is a specific sequence of three nucleotides within messenger RNA (mRNA) that signals the end of protein synthesis during translation. It is a key component of the genetic code that provides instructions for the assembly of amino acids into protein chains. There are three stop codons recognized by the genetic code: UAA, UAG, and UGA. These codons do not code for any amino acids, but instead serve as signals for the release of the newly synthesized polypeptide chain from the ribosome.
When a ribosome encounters a stop codon during translation, a release factor enzyme binds to the codon and triggers the termination of protein synthesis. This leads to the dissociation of the ribosome from the mRNA strand and the release of the completed polypeptide chain. The newly synthesized protein can then undergo further modifications and folding to form its final functional structure.
Stop codons play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and specificity of protein synthesis. They mark the appropriate endpoint for the synthesis of a protein and prevent the incorporation of any additional amino acids beyond the intended sequence. Mutations or errors in stop codons can lead to abnormal protein synthesis and potentially disrupt normal cellular processes.
Common Misspellings for STOP CODON
- atop codon
- ztop codon
- xtop codon
- dtop codon
- etop codon
- wtop codon
- srop codon
- sfop codon
- sgop codon
- syop codon
- s6op codon
- s5op codon
- stip codon
- stkp codon
- stlp codon
- stpp codon
- st0p codon
- st9p codon
- stoo codon
- stol codon
Etymology of STOP CODON
The term "stop codon" originates from the field of molecular biology, specifically in the context of protein synthesis and genetic code.
In the genetic code, a codon is a sequence of three nucleotides (the building blocks of DNA and RNA) that corresponds to a particular amino acid. There are 64 different codons, of which three are known as "stop codons". These stop codons signal the termination of protein synthesis, indicating that the ribosome should stop the process of translating the mRNA strand into a protein.
The word "stop" in "stop codon" refers to the cessation or halting of protein synthesis. And the term "codon" comes from the combination of "coda" (meaning end or concluding part) and "on" (indicating a small unit or segment). So, together, "stop codon" means a small segment or unit that signifies the end of protein synthesis.
