Explain why a single base deletion could be potentially more damaging to protein synthesis than a deletion of three consecutive bases confined to one triplet

In order to understand why a single base deletion could be more damaging to protein synthesis than a deletion of three consecutive bases confined to one triplet, let's first go over the basics of protein synthesis.

Protein synthesis occurs in cells through a process called translation. It involves the conversion of the genetic information encoded in DNA into functional proteins. This process requires the accurate reading of mRNA (messenger RNA) molecules, which are transcribed from DNA.

During translation, ribosomes read the mRNA sequence in sets of three nucleotides called codons. Each codon corresponds to a specific amino acid or a signal for starting or stopping protein synthesis. This means that any change in the number or sequence of nucleotides within a codon can potentially alter the reading frame and disrupt the entire protein synthesis process.

Now, let's consider the two scenarios you mentioned:

1. Single base deletion:
If a single base is deleted within a codon, it will cause a frameshift mutation. Frameshift mutations occur when the deletion shifts the reading frame, causing downstream codons to be read incorrectly. This would result in the wrong amino acids being added to the growing protein chain. Since each amino acid has a specific role in protein structure and function, this type of mutation can dramatically alter or disrupt the protein's normal function.

2. Deletion of three consecutive bases confined to one triplet:
In this scenario, if three consecutive bases are deleted within a codon, it would result in the loss of a single amino acid in the resulting protein sequence. However, since the deletion is confined within one triplet, the reading frame does not shift, and the subsequent codons can still be read correctly. While the missing amino acid may impact the protein's structure and function to some extent, it is less likely to have as significant an effect as a frameshift mutation. The protein may still retain some functionality, albeit with reduced efficiency or altered characteristics.

In summary, a single base deletion can be more damaging to protein synthesis because it causes a frameshift mutation, disrupting the reading frame and leading to potentially drastic changes in the resulting protein. On the other hand, a deletion of three consecutive bases confined to one triplet leads to the loss of a single amino acid but does not shift the reading frame, allowing the remaining codons to be read correctly, albeit with some functional consequences.