Degenerate

Degenerate is a term used in biology and genetics to describe a code that is not unique, specifically referring to the genetic code. The genetic code is said to be degenerate because a single amino acid can be coded for by more than one codon. This degeneracy is believed to be a key feature in preventing harmful mutations in DNA and RNA.

Overview

The term "degenerate" in the context of genetics refers to the redundancy of the genetic code. This redundancy means that different codons can code for the same amino acid. For example, the amino acid leucine can be coded for by six different codons. This is a protective feature of the genetic code, as it allows for some mutations in the DNA sequence without affecting the resulting protein.

Degeneracy and Mutations

The degeneracy of the genetic code plays a crucial role in buffering the effects of mutations. Because multiple codons can code for the same amino acid, a mutation in a DNA sequence may not necessarily result in a change in the protein that is produced. This is particularly true for mutations that occur in the third position of a codon, known as "silent" or "synonymous" mutations.

Evolutionary Significance

The degeneracy of the genetic code is thought to have significant evolutionary implications. It allows for genetic variation and evolution without the detrimental effects of deleterious mutations. This could potentially increase the rate of evolution and allow for greater adaptability in organisms.

See Also

• Genetic Code
• Codon
• Mutation
• Evolution

References

Degenerate Resources
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