1. A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence that can alter the genetic information.
2. The part of the nucleic acid that experiences the mutation is the codon (a sequence of three nucleotides) in mRNA, which determines the amino acid incorporated into the protein.
3. On the DNA illustration, draw an arrow pointing to the third nucleotide in the codon corresponding to position #2 in the mRNA sequence (the second codon from the left).
4. The mRNA codon CUU could mutate to CUC, CUA, or CUG and still code for leucine. Another mRNA codon that would change the amino acid is UUA (which codes for leucine) or any codon not in the leucine group, such as AUU (which codes for isoleucine).
5. All listed organisms can experience mutations: Archaea, Bacteria, Fungi, Plants, Protists, Animals (including humans).
6.
- Portion of mutated hemoglobin DNA: GAA CTC CTC → GUA CTC CTC
- mRNA: CUU GAG GAG → CAU GAG GAG
- Amino Acids: Leu-Glu-Glu → His-Glu-Glu
The point mutation changes the first codon from GAA (glutamic acid) to GUA (valine), resulting in sickle cell hemoglobin.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of amoeba sisters mutations worksheet answer key.
