Explore Resources

This interactive simulation from The Concord Consortium allows students to explore the fundamental processes of DNA transcription and translation, focusing on how random variations in DNA sequences can lead to different protein structures. Students can manipulate genetic code and observe the resulting changes in protein synthesis, fostering a deeper understanding of genotype-phenotype relationships. This tool is ideal for demonstrating key concepts in molecular genetics and can be used to facilitate inquiry-based learning about mutations and genetic diversity. Teachers can integrate this resource to support lessons on protein synthesis, genetic code, and the impact of DNA variations.

Explore the DNA difference between light and dark brown mouse fur Click **Transcribe** to zoom into the cell nucleus and see the chromosome unravel to expose the strands of DNA. The DNA separates and an mRNA strand is created by matching complementary nucleotides. Click **Translate** to watch the mRNA leave the nucleus for the cytoplasm and attach to a ribosome. tRNA molecules bring in amino acids and the amino acids are added in the correct order by matching complementary nucleotides. After translation, inspect the protein to see how the amino acid sequence folded.