"If, for example, all the codons are triplets, then in addition to the correct reading of the message, there are two incorrect readings which we shall obtain if we do not start the grouping into sets of three at the right place"
- Francis Crick
About this Quote
This quote by Francis Crick is referring to the process of translating hereditary details from DNA into proteins. Codons are the triplets of nucleotides that comprise the hereditary code. If the codons are read incorrectly, then the message will be misinterpreted and the incorrect protein will be produced. This quote is highlighting the value of beginning the grouping of codons into sets of three at the best location in order to make sure that the appropriate message reads. If the codons are not organized properly, then there will be two incorrect readings of the message. This could cause the production of the incorrect protein, which might have major repercussions for the organism. Therefore, it is vital to make sure that the codons are organized properly in order to produce the right protein.
About the Author