One of the fundamental principles in Molecular Biology field is understanding how our genetic code directs the synthesis of proteins, the building blocks of life.
At the heart of this activity lies the genetic code, a set of instructions encoded in DNA molecules. These instructions are transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA), which carries the code from the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm. At the ribosomes, the mRNA is read in groups of three nucleotides called codons, each of which corresponds to a specific amino acid. This process, known as translation, results in the synthesis of a protein chain composed of amino acids in the order dictated by the mRNA sequence.
In this session, we'll delve into the intricate process by which DNA instructions are translated into proteins, a marvel of cellular machinery. Participants will receive an introduction to the DNA code that links groups of nucleotides in mRNA to amino acids in a protein. They will engage in an activity where they will match the genetic code called out to corresponding amino acid stickers, placing them on an activity template. The genetic code and codon table will be displayed to assist participants in finding the correct answers.
Demonstration of the translation process using LEGO bricks allow young learners to visualize and interact with the process in a tangible way, making it easier to understand how genetic information is converted into functional proteins.
