Har Gobind Khorana was an Indian-American biochemist known for his groundbreaking work in deciphering the genetic code and its role in protein synthesis. His research significantly advanced the understanding of how nucleotides in DNA and RNA translate into proteins, which is fundamental to the process of translation, a critical aspect of molecular biology.
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Khorana shared the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1968 for his work on the interpretation of the genetic code and its function in protein synthesis.
His research demonstrated how specific sequences of nucleotides correspond to specific amino acids, forming the basis for understanding how genetic information translates into proteins.
Khorana was one of the first scientists to synthesize a functional gene in vitro, providing insights into the mechanisms of gene expression and regulation.
He also contributed to the understanding of the structure and function of nucleic acids, which are essential for replication and transcription processes.
Khorana's discoveries have had lasting implications in fields such as genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology, paving the way for advances in genetic engineering and synthetic biology.
Review Questions
How did Har Gobind Khorana's work contribute to our understanding of the relationship between nucleotides and proteins?
Har Gobind Khorana's work revealed how sequences of nucleotides in DNA and RNA are translated into specific amino acids during protein synthesis. He identified codons—triplets of nucleotides—that correspond to individual amino acids. This breakthrough established a direct link between genetic information and protein formation, fundamentally enhancing our understanding of molecular biology and genetics.
Discuss the significance of Khorana's in vitro synthesis of a functional gene and its impact on molecular biology.
Khorana's achievement in synthesizing a functional gene in vitro was significant because it demonstrated that genes could be artificially created and manipulated outside of living organisms. This paved the way for advancements in genetic engineering techniques, enabling scientists to explore gene function, develop gene therapies, and create genetically modified organisms. It revolutionized molecular biology by providing tools for studying genetics in more controlled environments.
Evaluate how Har Gobind Khorana's discoveries have influenced modern biotechnology applications.
Har Gobind Khorana's discoveries have had profound effects on modern biotechnology by establishing foundational principles for genetic engineering. His elucidation of the genetic code allows scientists to design synthetic genes for various applications, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and medical therapies. The ability to manipulate genetic material has led to innovations such as CRISPR technology for genome editing, enhancing crop resilience, and producing therapeutic proteins, showcasing Khorana's lasting legacy in science.