Decoding Mutations: How DNA Changes Impact Protein Synthesis

Biology Grades High School 8:52 Video
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Lesson Description

Explore the impact of mutations on the translation of RNA into amino acids and proteins. This lesson covers point and frameshift mutations, using codon tables, and understanding the consequences of these mutations.

Video Resource

Impact of mutations on translation into amino acids | High school biology | Khan Academy

Khan Academy

Duration: 8:52
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Key Concepts

  • Transcription and Translation
  • Codons and Amino Acids
  • Point Mutations (Substitution)
  • Frameshift Mutations (Insertion/Deletion)
  • Impact of Mutations on Protein Structure and Function

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to explain the process of transcription and translation.
  • Students will be able to use a codon table to determine the amino acid sequence from an mRNA sequence.
  • Students will be able to differentiate between point and frameshift mutations and predict their effects on the amino acid sequence.
  • Students will be able to describe how mutations can affect protein structure and function.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (10 mins)
    Begin by reviewing the central dogma of molecular biology (DNA -> RNA -> Protein). Briefly discuss the importance of accurate protein synthesis for cellular function. Introduce the concept of mutations as changes in the DNA sequence.
  • Video Viewing and Note-Taking (15 mins)
    Play the Khan Academy video 'Impact of mutations on translation into amino acids'. Instruct students to take notes on the key concepts presented in the video, including transcription, translation, codon usage, point mutations, and frameshift mutations.
  • Codon Table Practice (20 mins)
    Provide students with several mRNA sequences and have them use a codon table to determine the corresponding amino acid sequences. Include examples with potential point and frameshift mutations to analyze the resulting changes in the amino acid sequence.
  • Mutation Analysis Activity (20 mins)
    Present students with a hypothetical DNA sequence and its corresponding protein. Introduce different types of mutations (point and frameshift) and ask students to predict the resulting changes in the protein sequence. Discuss the potential effects of these changes on protein function.
  • Discussion and Wrap-up (15 mins)
    Facilitate a class discussion about the importance of proofreading mechanisms in DNA replication and the potential consequences of mutations, both positive and negative. Summarize the key concepts covered in the lesson.

Interactive Exercises

  • Interactive Codon Table Tool
    Use an online interactive codon table tool to allow students to input mRNA sequences and visualize the corresponding amino acid sequence in real-time. This will help them understand the relationship between codons and amino acids.
  • Mutation Simulation
    Simulate the effects of different types of mutations on a protein sequence using online simulation software. This will help students visualize the changes in protein structure and function caused by mutations.

Discussion Questions

  • How do point mutations and frameshift mutations differ in their effects on protein synthesis?
  • Why are proofreading mechanisms important in DNA replication?
  • Can mutations ever be beneficial? Explain with examples.
  • How could a mutation in a non-coding region of DNA still impact protein expression?

Skills Developed

  • Critical Thinking
  • Problem Solving
  • Data Analysis
  • Scientific Reasoning

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

Which of the following processes converts DNA into RNA?

Correct Answer: Transcription

Question 2:

What is a codon?

Correct Answer: A sequence of three nucleotide bases that codes for an amino acid

Question 3:

Using the codon table, what amino acid does the codon AUG code for?

Correct Answer: Methionine

Question 4:

What type of mutation involves the substitution of one nucleotide base for another?

Correct Answer: Point mutation

Question 5:

Which type of mutation involves the insertion or deletion of nucleotides, shifting the reading frame?

Correct Answer: Frameshift mutation

Question 6:

A mutation that results in a premature stop codon is called a:

Correct Answer: Nonsense mutation

Question 7:

What is the role of tRNA in translation?

Correct Answer: To carry amino acids to the ribosome

Question 8:

Which of the following is a possible consequence of a mutation in a gene?

Correct Answer: All of the above

Question 9:

What molecule carries the genetic code from the nucleus to the ribosome?

Correct Answer: mRNA

Question 10:

Which of the following is NOT a base found in RNA?

Correct Answer: Thymine

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

The process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template is called ___________.

Correct Answer: transcription

Question 2:

A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid is called a __________.

Correct Answer: codon

Question 3:

The cellular structure where protein synthesis takes place is the __________.

Correct Answer: ribosome

Question 4:

A change in the DNA sequence is known as a __________.

Correct Answer: mutation

Question 5:

A ___________ mutation involves a change in a single nucleotide base.

Correct Answer: point

Question 6:

The addition or deletion of nucleotides that shifts the reading frame results in a ___________ mutation.

Correct Answer: frameshift

Question 7:

A codon that signals the end of translation is called a ___________ codon.

Correct Answer: stop

Question 8:

The molecule that brings amino acids to the ribosome during translation is __________.

Correct Answer: tRNA

Question 9:

The process of synthesizing a protein from an mRNA template is called __________.

Correct Answer: translation

Question 10:

Variations in traits within a population are due to __________.

Correct Answer: mutations

Educational Standards

B.LS1.1:[Standard] Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins, which carry out the essential functions of life through systems of specialized cells. B.LS3.2:[Standard] Make and defend a claim based on evidence that inheritable genetic variations may result from: (1) new genetic combinations through meiosis, (2) viable errors occurring during replication, and/or (3) mutations caused by environmental factors. B.LS4.2:[Standard] Construct an explanation based on evidence that biological diversity is influenced by (1) the potential for a species to increase in number, (2) the heritable genetic variation of individuals in a species due to mutation and sexual reproduction, (3) competition for limited resources, and (4) the proliferation of those organisms that are better able to survive and reproduce in the environment.

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