stop codon: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “stop codon” mean?
A three-nucleotide sequence in DNA or RNA that signals the termination of protein synthesis during translation.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A three-nucleotide sequence in DNA or RNA that signals the termination of protein synthesis during translation.
Any of three specific codons (UAA, UAG, UGA in RNA; TAA, TAG, TGA in DNA) that instruct the ribosome to release the newly synthesized polypeptide chain.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or grammatical differences. Spelling conventions for related terms may differ (e.g., analyse/analyze).
Connotations
Identical technical connotation in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in specialised contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “stop codon” in a Sentence
The gene contains a stop codon.A mutation created a premature stop codon.Translation terminates at the stop codon.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “stop codon” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The ribosome will stop translating upon encountering the codon.
- The mutation caused the machinery to stop prematurely.
American English
- The ribosome will stop translating when it hits the codon.
- The mutation caused the machinery to stop prematurely.
adjective
British English
- The stop-codon mutation was pathogenic.
- They studied the stop-codon readthrough mechanism.
American English
- The stop codon mutation was pathogenic.
- They studied the stop codon read-through mechanism.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used exclusively in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Not used.
Technical
Core term in laboratory protocols, genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and medical genetics discussions.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “stop codon”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “stop codon”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “stop codon”
- Using 'stop codon' to refer to any mutation that stops protein production (it must be a specific nucleotide triplet).
- Pronouncing 'codon' as /ˈkɒd.ən/ instead of /ˈkəʊ.dɒn/ or /ˈkoʊ.dɑːn/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
There are three standard stop codons in the genetic code: UAA, UAG, and UGA (in RNA).
If a normal sense codon mutates into a stop codon, it causes premature termination, often resulting in a non-functional protein. This is a nonsense mutation.
Yes, non-coding regions called untranslated regions (UTRs) can exist after the stop codon. The stop codon only signals the end of the protein-coding sequence.
Yes, these are synonymous terms in molecular biology. 'Nonsense codon' is an older term, while 'stop codon' or 'termination codon' are more contemporary.
A three-nucleotide sequence in DNA or RNA that signals the termination of protein synthesis during translation.
Stop codon is usually technical/scientific in register.
Stop codon: in British English it is pronounced /ˌstɒp ˈkəʊ.dɒn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌstɑːp ˈkoʊ.dɑːn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a STOP sign on the road. A stop codon is the genetic 'STOP sign' that tells the ribosome to finish making the protein.
Conceptual Metaphor
A punctuation mark (like a full stop/period) in the genetic sentence; a termination signal or an 'off switch' for protein assembly.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is a stop codon in RNA?