What does the genetic code is considered universal?

Answer 1

A genetic code is the mapping of codons (three bases of DNA in an exon) to amino acids. There are 20 different amino acids and 64 possible codons.

The "universal genetic code" is a particular mapping that is used by most organisms on earth. This points to a single origin of life.

Answer 2

The molecule that determines the structure (and function) of all living things is the DNA, which is made of the exact same things. Whether you're talking about you or me, a blade of grass, a bird, a hippo, pond scum....anything, their DNA is composed of sugars, phosphates and 4 nitrogen bases. The only difference between you and me (and that blade of grass) is the sequence of our nitrogen bases. My DNA molecule is made up of the same stuff, but arranged in a different order. It's like you and I are working with the same 26 letters in different orders to create different words.

The sequence of nitrogenous bases (adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine) is the only difference in the DNA of all living things yet their groupings make the same amino acids. DNA codes for the production of proteins, so the reason I don't have feathers or scales is because I don't have the DNA sequence to make the proteins that are found in feathers or scales (like birds or lizards have). In every living thing on this planet, a genetic sequence of cytosine-adenine-guanine would make the amino acid glutamine. Adding up those amino acids in varying ways is what makes the proteins that we may or may not have.

Pretty freaking incredible when you think about all the diversity of life found on Earth.

Answer 3

Because all living things on Earth, from bacteria to humans, use it. The DNA in your cells and the DNA in the cells of an insect or jellyfish both use the same triplet codes to code for the same amino acids. The differences are all in the details as to how those amino acids are assembled. It's like constructing an infinite variety of buildings out of identical bricks.

It is one of the most compelling proofs of evolution and the common ancestry of Life.

Answer 4

DNA is referred to as "The Code Of Life" because it tells your cells to do their jobs, and what their jobs are. Your cells make up your organs, and organ systems. The code is very specific, A goes with T, T with A. G goes with C, Cwith G. RNA tells your cells what proteins to make. It's the extra step your cells do. Now, T goes with A, but then A goes with U, U goes with A, and T is out of the picture. C and G stay the same. It's pretty complicated!

Answer 5

The genetic code is also called the universal code because it was discovered by mapping human genes that we all came from the same place. (Africa)

Answer 6

n all organisms the code is read three bases at a time and in the same direction.

In most organisms the same amino acids

are assigned to particular codons

Answer 7

All living things have a genetic code, which allows them to produce offspring similar to themselves.

Answer 8

It is considered universal because all life as we know it has DNA and we can't think of a living organism without it.