Codons are triplets of DNA bases that code for amino acids in proteins. The genetic code is universal and redundant, with start and stop codons defining protein-coding regions.

Key Concepts:

• Each codon (3 bases) codes for one amino acid
• Start codon: ATG (Methionine)
• Stop codons: TAA, TAG, TGA
• Codon usage can affect gene expression

Applications:

• Gene and protein analysis
• Mutation and variant studies
• Biotechnology and synthetic biology