Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Steps of Translation

Anatomy & Physiology

3. Energy & Cell Processes

Steps of Translation

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Problem 8

Textbook Question

In what ways are a promoter and a start codon similar? In what ways are they different?

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the role of a promoter in the process of transcription. A promoter is a DNA sequence that signals the RNA polymerase where to begin transcription.

Understand the function of a start codon in the process of translation. A start codon is a specific sequence of nucleotides in mRNA that signals the beginning of protein synthesis.

Compare the locations of a promoter and a start codon. A promoter is located upstream of the gene it regulates, while a start codon is found within the mRNA transcript.

Examine the molecular components involved. Promoters are recognized by transcription factors and RNA polymerase, whereas start codons are recognized by the ribosome and initiator tRNA.

Discuss the outcome of each process. The promoter initiates the synthesis of RNA, while the start codon initiates the synthesis of a polypeptide chain.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Promoter

A promoter is a specific DNA sequence located upstream of a gene that serves as a binding site for RNA polymerase and transcription factors. It initiates the transcription of the gene into messenger RNA (mRNA). Promoters are crucial for regulating gene expression, as they determine when and how much of a gene is transcribed.

Start Codon

A start codon is a specific sequence of three nucleotides (AUG) in mRNA that signals the beginning of translation. It is recognized by the ribosome, which assembles amino acids into a polypeptide chain to form proteins. The start codon is essential for ensuring that the protein synthesis begins at the correct location on the mRNA.

Gene Expression Regulation

Gene expression regulation refers to the mechanisms that control the timing and amount of gene expression. Both promoters and start codons play vital roles in this process; promoters regulate the transcription of genes, while start codons dictate the initiation of translation. Understanding these concepts is key to grasping how genes are expressed and how proteins are synthesized in cells.