The most common start codon is AUG.
Start Codons Explained
Start codons are crucial in the process of translation, the stage of gene expression where mRNA is decoded to produce a protein.
- Definition: A start codon signals the ribosome where to begin protein synthesis on the mRNA.
- The role of AUG: According to News-Medical, the codon AUG is the most common START codon. It initiates translation in mRNA.
- Amino Acid Encoding: AUG codes for methionine (Met) in eukaryotes and formylmethionine (fMet) in prokaryotes (News-Medical).
Here's a table summarizing start codon information:
| Codon | Function | Encoded Amino Acid | Organism Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG | START codon | Methionine (Met) | Eukaryotes |
| AUG | START codon | Formylmethionine (fMet) | Prokaryotes |
