Anticodon vs. Codon: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 27, 2023
Anticodons are sequences on tRNA that pair with mRNA codons, which are triplets coding for amino acids
Key Differences
An anticodon is a sequence of three nucleotides on transfer RNA (tRNA), complementary to a corresponding codon on messenger RNA (mRNA), which is also a sequence of three nucleotides but specifies a particular amino acid.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
The anticodon ensures the correct amino acid is incorporated during protein synthesis, while the codon serves as a genetic code for building proteins, each representing a specific amino acid.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
In the process of translation, the anticodon of tRNA pairs with its complementary codon on mRNA, ensuring the proper sequence of amino acids in the resultant protein.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
Anticodons play a crucial role in the accuracy of protein synthesis, while codons are vital for storing and transmitting genetic information within a cell.
Janet White
Oct 27, 2023
Anticodons are part of the structure of tRNA, which helps in decoding mRNA, while codons are found on mRNA, derived from DNA during transcription.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Role in Protein Synthesis
Ensures correct amino acid addition
Specifies amino acid sequence
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
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Anticodon and Codon Definitions
Anticodon
Part of tRNA structure for decoding mRNA.
The anticodon loop on tRNA recognizes mRNA codons.
Janet White
Oct 27, 2023
Codon
A three-nucleotide sequence on mRNA.
The codon AUG codes for the amino acid methionine.
Huma Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
Anticodon
A sequence on tRNA complementary to mRNA codon.
The anticodon UAC pairs with the codon AUG.
Huma Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
Codon
Encodes specific amino acids in proteins.
Each codon corresponds to a particular amino acid.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
Anticodon
Ensures correct amino acid in protein synthesis.
Each anticodon corresponds to a specific amino acid.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 27, 2023
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Codon
Fundamental unit in genetic code.
Codons are the building blocks of genetic instructions.
Sara Rehman
Oct 27, 2023
Anticodon
Involved in translating genetic information.
Anticodons play a key role in the translation process.
Janet White
Oct 27, 2023
Codon
Derived from DNA during transcription.
MRNA codons are transcribed from DNA.
Harlon Moss
Oct 27, 2023
Anticodon
Complementary to codons in genetic code.
Anticodons ensure the accuracy of protein synthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
Codon
Vital for protein synthesis.
Codons guide the assembly of amino acids into proteins.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 27, 2023
Anticodon
A sequence of three adjacent nucleotides in transfer RNA that binds to a corresponding codon in messenger RNA and designates a specific amino acid during protein synthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 09, 2022
Codon
A sequence of three adjacent nucleotides constituting the genetic code that determines the insertion of a specific amino acid in a polypeptide chain during protein synthesis or the signal to stop protein synthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 09, 2022
Anticodon
(genetics) A sequence of three nucleotides in transfer RNA that binds to the complementary triplet (codon) in messenger RNA to specify an amino acid during protein synthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Sep 09, 2022
FAQs
Where are anticodons located?
Anticodons are located on transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules.
Sara Rehman
Oct 27, 2023
What is an anticodon?
An anticodon is a sequence of three nucleotides in a tRNA molecule that is complementary to a codon in mRNA.
Huma Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
What is a codon?
A codon is a sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that specifies a particular amino acid or signifies a start or stop signal for protein synthesis.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
What role does the ribosome play with codons and anticodons?
The ribosome facilitates the pairing of tRNA anticodons with mRNA codons during translation.
Janet White
Oct 27, 2023
Do stop codons have corresponding anticodons?
Stop codons do not have corresponding tRNA anticodons. Instead, release factors recognize stop codons and terminate translation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
What is the function of an anticodon?
The anticodon pairs with its complementary codon in mRNA, ensuring the correct amino acid is added during protein synthesis.
Janet White
Oct 27, 2023
How many possible codons are there?
There are 64 possible codons, corresponding to 20 amino acids and several start and stop signals.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 27, 2023
Can multiple codons code for the same amino acid?
Yes, due to the redundancy of the genetic code, several codons can specify the same amino acid.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 27, 2023
What happens if there's a mistake in the codon sequence?
A mistake in the codon sequence can result in the incorporation of the wrong amino acid, potentially affecting protein function.
Sara Rehman
Oct 27, 2023
What is a stop codon?
A stop codon signals the end of translation. There are three stop codons: UAA, UAG, and UGA.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
How do codons relate to protein synthesis?
Codons in mRNA dictate the sequence of amino acids in a protein during the process of translation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
How do anticodons recognize codons?
Anticodons form base pairs with their complementary codons in mRNA during translation.
Harlon Moss
Oct 27, 2023
Do anticodons and codons have the same nucleotide sequence?
No, anticodons are complementary to codons. For instance, if a codon sequence is AUG, the corresponding anticodon will be UAC.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 27, 2023
Why are anticodons important in translation?
Anticodons ensure that the correct amino acids are incorporated into the growing polypeptide chain based on the mRNA sequence.
Janet White
Oct 27, 2023
Can changes in codons affect the function of proteins?
Yes, changes in codons (mutations) can lead to changes in amino acid sequences, potentially altering protein function or structure.
Harlon Moss
Oct 27, 2023
How does the anticodon-codon interaction ensure the accuracy of protein synthesis?
The specific base-pairing between anticodons and codons ensures the correct sequence of amino acids in a protein, preserving its function and structure.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
Are codons always three nucleotides long?
Yes, codons always consist of three nucleotides.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 27, 2023
Is there a specific start codon?
Yes, the codon AUG serves as the start codon and also codes for the amino acid methionine.
Sara Rehman
Oct 27, 2023
Can tRNA molecules carry any amino acid?
No, each tRNA molecule is specific to one amino acid, determined by its anticodon.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 27, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
