DNA & RNA Strands: Problem Solving

  • Thread starter LadiesMan
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In summary, DNA and RNA strands are nucleic acids that play different roles in the functioning of living organisms. DNA is responsible for storing genetic information, while RNA is involved in protein production and gene regulation. These strands are formed through DNA replication and transcription, and can be manipulated through techniques such as genetic engineering and RNA interference. Scientists use various techniques, such as DNA sequencing and PCR, to solve problems related to DNA and RNA strands. The research on these strands has numerous applications in fields such as medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.
  • #1
LadiesMan
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DNA Template: 3' AATGGCCAGTGGTTCGCAC 5'

Therefore: RNA: 5' UUACCGGUCACCAAGCGUG 3'

One problem, when using the genetic code we have an extra nitrogenous base. What to do?

Thanks :)
 
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  • #2
The extra base(s) might not code for anything. You need to look for the start codon.
 
  • #3
one problem i don't think there is a start codon there
 
  • #4
In that case, the sequence you just listed could be part of an untranslated region in the DNA, or it could also be a translated region. It's just one segment of the DNA. Without any questions concerned with it, that's as much as you can know.
 
  • #5
wow weird this assignment tells me to code it's amino acid sequence :( And there is no start codon.
 
  • #6
But I do see a start codon. Look closer.
 
  • #7
umm gug, but that's only one thing :( and then the next question would be like, adding a G to the eigth nucleotide of the DNA template, why is the mRNA (amino acids) sequence shorter. BUt instead it would be longer as GUG occurs earlier.
 
  • #8
GUG is not a start codon. Your start codons in DNA start with TAC from the 3' to 5' end.
 
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  • #9
ohh so it would start on the uac? we have to code for mRNA
 
  • #10
LadiesMan said:
ohh so it would start on the uac? we have to code for mRNA

Yes.

EDIT: whoops, Gannon is correct.
 
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  • #11
ok thanks.
 
  • #12
If there is no start codon present, you can usually assume that the sequence given is in the middle of a region being translated. It usually isn't a trick question about "there's no start codon, so no polypeptide is produced." There may be a stop codon present as well, which would terminate translation, but again, if there is none then the strand is a mid-region. As for the extra base, it is negligible because obviously no amino acid has a guanine-only tRNA complement.
 
  • #13
LadiesMan said:
ohh so it would start on the uac? we have to code for mRNA
No. The only start codon sequence is that for methionine (AUG). UAC is one of two sequences for tyrosine.
 
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1. What is the difference between DNA and RNA strands?

DNA stands for deoxyribonucleic acid and is the genetic material that carries the instructions for the development, growth, and functioning of all living organisms. It is a double-stranded molecule that is made up of four nucleotides: adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine. RNA stands for ribonucleic acid and is also a nucleic acid that is involved in protein synthesis and gene regulation. It is a single-stranded molecule that is made up of four nucleotides: adenine, guanine, cytosine, and uracil. The main difference between DNA and RNA is that DNA is more stable and is responsible for storing genetic information, while RNA is more versatile and plays a role in protein production.

2. How are DNA and RNA strands formed?

DNA and RNA strands are formed through a process called DNA replication. During this process, the two strands of DNA separate and each strand serves as a template for the formation of a new complementary strand. This results in two identical DNA molecules. RNA strands are formed through a process called transcription, where a copy of a DNA sequence is made into an RNA molecule. This RNA molecule can then be used to create proteins through a process called translation.

3. Can DNA and RNA strands be manipulated or changed?

Yes, both DNA and RNA strands can be manipulated or changed. DNA can be manipulated through processes such as genetic engineering, where specific genes can be inserted or removed from an organism's DNA. RNA can also be manipulated through processes such as RNA interference, where specific RNA sequences can be targeted and silenced. These manipulations can have various effects on the organism, such as altering its traits or gene expression.

4. How do scientists solve problems related to DNA and RNA strands?

Scientists solve problems related to DNA and RNA strands in various ways. They use techniques such as DNA sequencing to analyze and understand the sequence of nucleotides in a DNA molecule. They also use techniques such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to amplify specific DNA sequences for further analysis. Additionally, scientists use computer programs and bioinformatics tools to analyze large amounts of DNA and RNA data and make predictions about gene function and protein structure.

5. What are some common applications of DNA and RNA strand research?

Research on DNA and RNA strands has many applications in various fields such as medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Some common applications include genetic testing for diseases, gene therapy for treating genetic disorders, and genetic modification of crops to improve their yield and resistance to diseases. Additionally, DNA and RNA strand research is also crucial in understanding and developing treatments for diseases such as cancer and genetic disorders.

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