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Multiple Choice
Which effect would a mutation in mRNA have on the production of proteins?
A
It would have no effect on the protein produced.
B
It would always result in the production of a longer protein.
C
It would cause the protein to be produced at a faster rate.
D
It could lead to the production of a nonfunctional protein.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that mRNA is a crucial intermediary molecule that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized.
Recognize that a mutation in mRNA can alter the sequence of nucleotides, potentially changing the codons that are read during translation.
Recall that each codon in mRNA corresponds to a specific amino acid or a stop signal during protein synthesis. A mutation might change a codon to one that codes for a different amino acid or a stop codon.
Consider that if the mutation results in a different amino acid being incorporated, it could alter the protein's structure and function, potentially leading to a nonfunctional protein.
Understand that if the mutation introduces a premature stop codon, it could result in a truncated protein, which is often nonfunctional or has altered function.