Intelligent Design Investigation

Explore the Evidence

Biological Information, DNA and the Genetic Code  •  12 evidence records
A Visit With Jesus

This investigation draws upon 12 related evidence records. They are grouped below according to the part of the investigation they help us examine. Select any record for a closer look at the observation, scientific background, significance, uncertainties, and its relevance to Intelligent Design.

Information Stored in DNA

Biological Information

DNA and the Storage of Biological Information

DNA is the principal hereditary material of cellular life. Its sequence of four nucleotide bases stores information that can be copied, inherited, and used by cells.
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Biological Information

Functional Information in DNA Sequences

The biological importance of DNA depends upon particular sequences performing useful functions. Some sequences specify molecular products, while others help regulate when and where those products are produced.
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Gene Regulation

Genes, Regulation, and the Control of Cellular Activity

Cells do not simply possess genes; they regulate their use. Networks of DNA elements, transcription factors, chromatin states, and RNA-related processes help determine which genes are active in particular cells and circumstances.
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Reading and Using Genetic Information

Information Processing

Transcription: From DNA to RNA

Transcription is the process by which cells copy selected DNA sequences into RNA. It is the first major step by which stored genetic information becomes active in the cell.
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Genetic Code

The Genetic Code

The genetic code is the system by which three-nucleotide sequences in messenger RNA correspond to amino acids used in protein synthesis. It connects information stored in nucleic acids with the chemically different world of proteins.
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Translation System

Transfer RNA and Molecular Recognition

Transfer RNA molecules act as adaptors during protein synthesis. Each carries an amino acid while recognizing corresponding codons in messenger RNA through its anticodon.
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Translating Information Into Proteins

Translation System

Aminoacyl-tRNA Synthetases and Correct Amino-Acid Assignment

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases attach amino acids to appropriate transfer RNAs. In doing so, they establish a crucial part of the functional relationship between codons and amino acids.
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Translation System

The Ribosome and Protein Translation

The ribosome is the molecular machine on which messenger RNA is translated into protein. It coordinates messenger RNA and transfer RNAs while catalyzing formation of the growing polypeptide chain.
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Information Fidelity

Accuracy, Error Correction, and Quality Control

Protein synthesis includes multiple mechanisms that improve accuracy. Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases edit charging mistakes, while the ribosome and translation factors discriminate among competing transfer RNAs.
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Where Did the Code Come From?

Genetic Code

The Origin and Evolution of the Genetic Code

The genetic code is nearly universal and highly structured, but its historical origin remains uncertain. Several models seek to explain how associations between nucleotide sequences and amino acids developed into the modern code.
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Integrated System

The Origin of the Translation System

Modern translation requires a coordinated system of messenger RNA, transfer RNAs, aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, ribosomes, and additional factors. Researchers seek simpler evolutionary stages capable of connecting an earlier RNA world with coded protein synthesis.
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Looking at the Whole System

Integrated System

Biological Information as an Integrated System

Biological information operates through an integrated system. DNA stores sequences, genes are transcribed into RNA, codons are interpreted through adaptor molecules, amino acids are selected and attached, ribosomes translate sequences into proteins, and multiple mechanisms maintain sufficient fidelity for the system to function.
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  Evidence records distinguish observations from proposed explanations and areas that remain uncertain.