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Cell Growth & Reproduction and Protein Synthesis Cheat Sheet

Mutations are changes in the genetic code that can be point mutations or frameshift mutations. Codons are triplets of nucleotides that code for amino acids. Transcription is the process where DNA is used as a template to synthesize RNA, while translation is the process of converting mRNA into a protein. DNA is made up of nucleotides with complementary base pairing between adenine-thymine and cytosine-guanine that allows for its double helix structure. Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells and is important for growth, while meiosis reduces the chromosome number by half and generates genetically diverse gametes for sexual reproduction.

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42 views

Cell Growth & Reproduction and Protein Synthesis Cheat Sheet

Mutations are changes in the genetic code that can be point mutations or frameshift mutations. Codons are triplets of nucleotides that code for amino acids. Transcription is the process where DNA is used as a template to synthesize RNA, while translation is the process of converting mRNA into a protein. DNA is made up of nucleotides with complementary base pairing between adenine-thymine and cytosine-guanine that allows for its double helix structure. Mitosis results in two identical daughter cells and is important for growth, while meiosis reduces the chromosome number by half and generates genetically diverse gametes for sexual reproduction.

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Najib Ayoub
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We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Protein Synthesis and Cell Growth & Reproduction Cheat Sheet

Please use the following information to prepare for the jeopardy game that we will play today (You will
be given 5 minutes to study this with your group) AND this will also be very important to use for your
preparation for the Academic Champions competition in December! Please note: This material will
NOT be heavily taught in the meeting so please make sure to read and understand the material!

Mutation and Codons:


• Mutations are changes in the genetic code.
• Types: Point mutations (substitution, insertion, deletion) and frameshift mutations (insertion or deletion of
nucleotides).
• Codons:

• Codons are triplets of nucleotides in DNA or RNA.


• They code for amino acids in protein synthesis.
• Start codon: AUG (initiates protein synthesis).
• Stop codons: UAA, UAG, UGA (signal the end of protein synthesis).

• How to Read a Codon Chart:

• A codon chart lists all possible codons and the amino acids they code for.
• Start with the first nucleotide in the codon, then the second, and finally the
third.
• Find the codon in the chart to identify the corresponding amino acid.

• Example:

• Codon: CAC
• First nucleotide: C
• Second nucleotide: A
• Third nucleotide: C
• Locate CAC in the codon chart to find that it codes for the amino acid histidine (His).

Transcription and Translation:


Transcription:
• Transcription is the process where DNA is used as a template to synthesize RNA.
• It occurs in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.
• Key players: DNA, RNA polymerase, and nucleotide bases (A, U, C, G).
• Steps: a. RNA polymerase binds to the DNA at the promoter region. b. DNA unwinds, and complementary RNA
nucleotides are added. c. RNA strand is synthesized, creating a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule. d. Termination
occurs when RNA polymerase reaches the terminator sequence.
Translation:
• Translation is the process of converting the information in mRNA into a sequence of amino acids in a protein.
• It takes place in the ribosomes of the cytoplasm.
• Key players: mRNA, ribosomes, tRNA, amino acids.
• Steps: a. Initiation: The small ribosomal subunit binds to the mRNA at the start codon (AUG), and a tRNA carrying
methionine binds to it. b. Elongation: Ribosome moves along the mRNA, tRNAs bring amino acids, and peptide
bonds form between amino acids. c. Termination: When a stop codon is reached, protein synthesis ends.
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid):
• DNA is a molecule that carries genetic information in all living organisms.
• It consists of two long chains (strands) of nucleotides running in opposite directions.
• The backbone of DNA is made up of deoxyribose sugar and phosphate groups.
2. Nitrogenous Bases:

• There are four nitrogenous bases in DNA: a. Adenine (A) b. Thymine (T) c. Cytosine (C) d. Guanine (G)
3. Base Pairing:

• Adenine (A) always pairs with Thymine (T).


• Cytosine (C) always pairs with Guanine (G).
• This complementary base pairing is fundamental for DNA's double helix structure.
4. DNA Double Helix:

• DNA is shaped like a double helix, resembling a twisted ladder.


• The nitrogenous bases form the ladder's rungs, while the sugar-phosphate backbone forms the sides.
• Base pairs are connected by hydrogen bonds.
5. DNA Replication:

• DNA can make exact copies of itself through a process called DNA replication.
• It ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete set of genetic information during cell division.
• DNA helicase unwinds the double helix, and DNA polymerase adds complementary nucleotides to each strand.
6. Genetic Information:

• The sequence of nitrogenous bases in DNA encodes the genetic information.


• Genes are specific sequences of bases that provide instructions for building proteins, which are essential for various cellular
functions.

Mitosis & Meiosis:


• Mitosis is the process of cell division that results in the production of two identical daughter cells from a single
parent cell.
• It plays a crucial role in growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction.
• Key phases of mitosis: a. Prophase: Chromosomes condense, the nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle
fibers form. b. Metaphase: Chromosomes align at the cell's equatorial plane (metaphase plate). c. Anaphase:
Sister chromatids are pulled apart and move to opposite poles of the cell. d. Telophase: Chromatids reach the
poles, the nuclear envelope re-forms, and the cell undergoes cytokinesis (division of the cytoplasm).
2. Meiosis:

• Meiosis is the process of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation
of specialized sex cells (gametes - sperm and eggs).
• It involves two successive divisions: Meiosis I and Meiosis II.
• Key differences from mitosis: a. Homologous chromosomes: Meiosis I separates homologous chromosomes,
creating genetically diverse daughter cells. b. Crossing-over: A unique event in prophase I of meiosis, where
genetic material is exchanged between homologous chromosomes, increasing genetic diversity.
3. Genetic Diversity:

• Meiosis is essential for genetic diversity because it shuffles genetic material and reduces the chromosome
number in gametes.
• Crossing-over and random assortment during meiosis contribute to unique genetic combinations.
4. Role in Reproduction:

• Mitosis is responsible for general cell division and tissue growth.


• Meiosis generates gametes for sexual reproduction, allowing offspring to inherit a combination of genes from
both parents.

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