What are codons?

Codons are defined as sets of three nucleotides in a DNA or RNA sequence that correspond to specific amino acids during the process of translation in protein synthesis. Each codon is part of the genetic code, which dictates how the sequence of nucleotides is translated into an amino acid sequence, ultimately forming proteins. For example, the codon UUU codes for the amino acid phenylalanine. This triplet nature of codons is crucial because it allows for a broad array of combinations that can specify the 20 different amino acids used in protein synthesis, contributing to the diversity of proteins in living organisms.

In contrast, transcription signaling and gene expression relate to other processes in molecular biology, such as the initiation and regulation of gene transcription rather than the specific coding function of codons. The sequences of amino acids represent the outcome of translation rather than being directly defined as codons themselves, which explicitly refer to the nucleotide sequence. Therefore, the focus on sets of three nucleotides coding for amino acids accurately underscores the fundamental role codons play in bridging genetic information and protein synthesis.