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Dec 11, 2025
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Understanding RNA and Its Role in the Genetic Code
Pragya Adupa
@pragyaadupa_duwc
1 / 4
RNA and the Genetic Code
When your cells need to make proteins, they use RNA molecules to translate DNA's instructions into action. The messenger RNA (mRNA) serves as a disposable copy that carries genetic information from DNA to the cellular protein-building machinery.
In mRNA, the genetic instructions come in three-letter codes called codons. Each codon is a triplet of nucleotide bases that specifies either an amino acid or a stop signal during translation. With four possible nucleotides in each of the three positions, there are 64 possible codons in the genetic code.
Interestingly, these 64 codons only need to specify 20 different amino acids, which means multiple codons can code for the same amino acid. This redundancy in the genetic code provides a safety net against certain types of mutations.
Try This! The codon AUG serves as both the "start" signal for protein synthesis and codes for the amino acid methionine. Can you find which codons serve as "stop" signals in the codon table?
The Codon Table
The codon table is like a translator's dictionary that shows which amino acid each mRNA codon specifies. Each codon consists of three nucleotides (U, C, A, or G), and the specific sequence determines which amino acid gets added to the growing protein chain.
For example, if you see the codon UUU or UUC in an mRNA molecule, the amino acid phenylalanine will be added to the protein. The codons UAA, UAG, and UGA don't code for any amino acid—instead, they serve as "stop" signals that tell the cell's protein-making machinery that the protein is complete.
The codon AUG plays a special role in protein synthesis. It typically serves as the "start" signal that initiates protein production, while also coding for the amino acid methionine. This dual function helps the cell know exactly where to begin building each protein.
Remember: The genetic code is read in non-overlapping triplets, starting from a specific point. If you shift the reading frame even by one nucleotide, you'll get completely different amino acids!
The Universal Language of Life
One of the most fascinating aspects of the genetic code is that it's highly conserved across nearly all life forms. This means bacteria, plants, animals, and humans all use essentially the same coding system—a powerful piece of evidence for the common origin of life on Earth.
There are some minor variations in the genetic code among bacteria, archaea, and in cellular organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts. These differences provide clues about evolutionary relationships and how these structures evolved.
The actual translation of mRNA into proteins requires two other key players: ribosomes and transfer RNA (tRNA). Ribosomes are molecular machines composed of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins. During translation, the large and small ribosomal subunits come together around an mRNA strand.
Each tRNA molecule has an anticodon on one end that matches up with a specific mRNA codon. The other end of the tRNA carries the amino acid specified by that codon. As tRNAs deliver their amino acids in the correct sequence, the ribosome joins them together with peptide bonds, forming a polypeptide chain.
Cool Connection: The fact that the rRNA portion of the ribosome (not the protein part) catalyzes peptide bond formation suggests that RNA molecules may have preceded proteins in early life forms!
The Translation Process
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are the molecular delivery trucks of protein synthesis. Each tRNA type carries a specific amino acid and has an anticodon that matches the corresponding mRNA codon. When the anticodon pairs with its matching codon, the amino acid is positioned correctly for addition to the growing protein chain.
As different tRNAs deliver their amino acids in the precise order dictated by the mRNA sequence, the ribosome catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between adjacent amino acids. This process continues until a stop codon is reached, resulting in a completed polypeptide chain that will fold into a functional protein.
Just as DNA replication requires free nucleotides as building blocks, protein synthesis through RNA translation requires a supply of free amino acids. Your cells must maintain adequate pools of these amino acids, either by synthesizing them or obtaining them through your diet.
Big Picture: The flow of genetic information in your cells follows a pattern: DNA → RNA → protein. This fundamental process, sometimes called the "central dogma" of molecular biology, is happening millions of times in your body right now!
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Understanding RNA and Its Role in the Genetic Code
Pragya Adupa
@pragyaadupa_duwc
RNA molecules play crucial roles in decoding DNA's instructions and building proteins. This process involves specific RNA types and a genetic code that translates nucleotide sequences into amino acids, the building blocks of proteins.
RNA and the Genetic Code
When your cells need to make proteins, they use RNA molecules to translate DNA's instructions into action. The messenger RNA (mRNA) serves as a disposable copy that carries genetic information from DNA to the cellular protein-building machinery.
In mRNA, the genetic instructions come in three-letter codes called codons. Each codon is a triplet of nucleotide bases that specifies either an amino acid or a stop signal during translation. With four possible nucleotides in each of the three positions, there are 64 possible codons in the genetic code.
Interestingly, these 64 codons only need to specify 20 different amino acids, which means multiple codons can code for the same amino acid. This redundancy in the genetic code provides a safety net against certain types of mutations.
Try This! The codon AUG serves as both the "start" signal for protein synthesis and codes for the amino acid methionine. Can you find which codons serve as "stop" signals in the codon table?
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The Codon Table
The codon table is like a translator's dictionary that shows which amino acid each mRNA codon specifies. Each codon consists of three nucleotides (U, C, A, or G), and the specific sequence determines which amino acid gets added to the growing protein chain.
For example, if you see the codon UUU or UUC in an mRNA molecule, the amino acid phenylalanine will be added to the protein. The codons UAA, UAG, and UGA don't code for any amino acid—instead, they serve as "stop" signals that tell the cell's protein-making machinery that the protein is complete.
The codon AUG plays a special role in protein synthesis. It typically serves as the "start" signal that initiates protein production, while also coding for the amino acid methionine. This dual function helps the cell know exactly where to begin building each protein.
Remember: The genetic code is read in non-overlapping triplets, starting from a specific point. If you shift the reading frame even by one nucleotide, you'll get completely different amino acids!
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The Universal Language of Life
One of the most fascinating aspects of the genetic code is that it's highly conserved across nearly all life forms. This means bacteria, plants, animals, and humans all use essentially the same coding system—a powerful piece of evidence for the common origin of life on Earth.
There are some minor variations in the genetic code among bacteria, archaea, and in cellular organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts. These differences provide clues about evolutionary relationships and how these structures evolved.
The actual translation of mRNA into proteins requires two other key players: ribosomes and transfer RNA (tRNA). Ribosomes are molecular machines composed of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins. During translation, the large and small ribosomal subunits come together around an mRNA strand.
Each tRNA molecule has an anticodon on one end that matches up with a specific mRNA codon. The other end of the tRNA carries the amino acid specified by that codon. As tRNAs deliver their amino acids in the correct sequence, the ribosome joins them together with peptide bonds, forming a polypeptide chain.
Cool Connection: The fact that the rRNA portion of the ribosome (not the protein part) catalyzes peptide bond formation suggests that RNA molecules may have preceded proteins in early life forms!
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Improve your grades
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The Translation Process
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are the molecular delivery trucks of protein synthesis. Each tRNA type carries a specific amino acid and has an anticodon that matches the corresponding mRNA codon. When the anticodon pairs with its matching codon, the amino acid is positioned correctly for addition to the growing protein chain.
As different tRNAs deliver their amino acids in the precise order dictated by the mRNA sequence, the ribosome catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between adjacent amino acids. This process continues until a stop codon is reached, resulting in a completed polypeptide chain that will fold into a functional protein.
Just as DNA replication requires free nucleotides as building blocks, protein synthesis through RNA translation requires a supply of free amino acids. Your cells must maintain adequate pools of these amino acids, either by synthesizing them or obtaining them through your diet.
Big Picture: The flow of genetic information in your cells follows a pattern: DNA → RNA → protein. This fundamental process, sometimes called the "central dogma" of molecular biology, is happening millions of times in your body right now!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user