degenerate code
What degenerate code means in Biology A-Level, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of degenerate code
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Reference: AQA
More than one triplet (codon) codes for the same amino acid, so most amino acids are specified by more than one codon.
Most amino acids are coded for by more than one triplet, so a substitution may not change the amino acid sequence.
The genetic code is degenerate, meaning a new codon can still specify the same amino acid.
A feature of the genetic code where more than one codon can code for the same amino acid.
Topics that use degenerate code
- DNA, genes and chromosomes (AQA A-Level)
- Genetic diversity can arise as a result of mutation or during (AQA A-Level)
- Topic 2: Genes and Health (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- alleles
- crossing over
- active transport
- base sequence
- chemical mutagens
- chromatin
- chromosome content diagrams
- circular organelle DNA
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