Same amino acid is coded by multiple codons d/t following :
**Core Concept**
Degeneracy in the genetic code refers to the phenomenon where more than one codon (a sequence of three nucleotides) can code for the same amino acid. This property of the genetic code allows for some redundancy and flexibility in the translation process. Degeneracy is a fundamental aspect of the genetic code, enabling the same amino acid to be encoded by multiple codons.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The genetic code is degenerate due to the wobble hypothesis proposed by Francis Crick. This hypothesis states that the 5' end of the tRNA molecule can form non-standard base pairing with the 3' end of the mRNA codon, allowing for some flexibility in the recognition of codons by tRNA molecules. As a result, multiple codons can code for the same amino acid, as the tRNA molecule can recognize different codons through this wobble effect. This property of the genetic code is crucial for understanding how mutations can affect protein synthesis.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Frame-shift mutation refers to a type of mutation that occurs when there is an insertion or deletion of nucleotides in the DNA sequence, resulting in a shift of the reading frame during translation. This type of mutation can lead to the synthesis of completely different amino acid sequences, and is not related to the concept of degeneracy in the genetic code.
**Option C:** Transcription is the process of creating a complementary RNA molecule from a DNA template, and is not directly related to the concept of degeneracy in the genetic code.
**Option D:** Mutation refers to any change in the DNA sequence, and is a broad term that encompasses many different types of changes, including point mutations, deletions, and insertions. While mutations can lead to changes in the genetic code, the concept of degeneracy specifically refers to the phenomenon of multiple codons coding for the same amino acid.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that the genetic code is degenerate, allowing for multiple codons to code for the same amino acid. This property of the genetic code is crucial for understanding how mutations can affect protein synthesis, and is a key concept in molecular biology and genetics.
**✓ Correct Answer: A. Degeneracy**