DNA and Protein Synthesis

Answer the following questions, in a total of 350 to 700 words.

• Describe the structure of DNA and the steps of protein synthesis.
• Describe the relationships between the following terms:

o DNA
o Chromatin material
o Gene
o Chromosome
• Use the following gene in protein synthesis:

o TAGGACCATTTTAGCCCC

– Show the mRNA.
– Show the tRNA.
– Name the amino acids that will be placed in the polypeptide chain. (Use the codon table, Figure 10.8A of Campbell Biology.)

• A gene will direct the making of polypeptide chains, and polypeptide chains form proteins. All enzymes are proteins. Therefore, how would you explain carrying a gene for a trait that does not show up in the offspring?

• In order for DNA to pass genetic information to the next generation, DNA must replicate successfully. Mistakes in replication could result in major problems in heredity.

o Explain how DNA replicates.
o Describe the formation of the leading strand and lagging strand and include the enzymes involved.
o Why do the legs replicate differently?