What is a codon?

A codon is defined as a sequence of three nucleotides that corresponds to a specific amino acid in protein synthesis. In the genetic code, each set of three nucleotides (or base pairs) on the messenger RNA (mRNA) is read during translation, and this triplet format enables the correct incorporation of amino acids into a growing polypeptide chain. This triplet nature of codons allows for 64 possible combinations (since there are four nucleotides), which can code for the 20 standard amino acids used in proteins, as well as start and stop signals during translation. This redundancy in the genetic code means that multiple codons can specify the same amino acid, demonstrating the versatility and efficiency of genetic encoding in biological systems.