Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

start codon

American  

noun

Genetics.
  1. a codon that starts the synthesis of a protein molecule.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The reading frame for translation is set by the AUG start codon near the 5' end of the mRNA.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

In addition to specifying the amino acid methionine, it also serves as the start codon to initiate translation.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Once at the cap, the initiation complex tracks along the mRNA in the 5' to 3' direction, searching for the AUG start codon.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Following the start codon, mRNA is read three bases at a time, until it reaches one of three different “stop” codons, which end translation.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2018

The initiator tRNA interacts with the AUG start codon, and links to a special form of the amino acid methionine that is typically removed from the polypeptide after translation is complete.

From Textbooks • Apr. 25, 2013