Question

Following are the features of genetic codes. What does each one indicate?
A. Stop codon
B. Unambiguous codon
C. Degenerate codon
D. Universal codon

Answer 1

The genetic code is a system of rules that live cells employ to convert information encoded in genetic material (nucleotide triplet sequences, or codons) into proteins. The ribosome, which uses transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules to deliver amino acids and read the mRNA three nucleotides at a time, connects proteinogenic amino acids in the order prescribed by messenger RNA (mRNA).

Complete answer:
Option A Stop codon : A stop codon is a three-nucleotide sequence that indicates the end of protein production in a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule. The genetic code specifies the link between a gene's DNA base sequence (A, C, G, and T) and the protein sequence that it encodes. The cell reads the gene's sequence in three-base groups.
Option B Unambiguous codon : An unambiguous codon means that a certain codon will always code for the same amino acid, wherever it is found. Or in other words it can be said that there is ambiguity for a particular codon.
Option C Degenerate codon : For certain amino acids, the code is degenerate. One amino acid has several coding triplets. For example, the UUU and UUC are two codons that code for phenylalanine.
Option D Universal codon : In most creatures, the genetic code is very similar. It indicates that the same codon that codes for methionine in humans also codes for methionine in prokaryotes. This is not entirely accurate, as scientists have recently identified numerous exceptions to the rule. Although the genetic code is not universal, it is still predominant.

Note:
During protein synthesis, the codons determine which amino acid will be added next. A three-nucleotide codon in a nucleic acid sequence indicates a single amino acid, with few exceptions. The vast majority of genes use a single coding scheme. Though there are alternative codes (such as in mitochondria), this approach is commonly referred to as the canonical or conventional genetic code, or simply the genetic code.