Which of the following most accurately describes the anticodon?

• A. A sequence of three nucleotides on mRNA that codes for a specific amino acid
• B. A sequence of three nucleotides on DNA that initiates transcription
• C. A sequence of three nucleotides on tRNA that is complementary to a codon on mRNA
• D. A sequence of three nucleotides on rRNA that helps in ribosome assembly

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of tRNA in protein synthesis: tRNA (transfer RNA) is responsible for bringing the correct amino acid to the ribosome during translation, based on the mRNA sequence.
2. Define the term 'anticodon': An anticodon is a sequence of three nucleotides on a tRNA molecule that is complementary to a codon on mRNA. This complementarity ensures that the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain.
3. Differentiate between codons and anticodons: Codons are sequences of three nucleotides on mRNA that specify which amino acid will be added next during protein synthesis. Anticodons, on the other hand, are found on tRNA and pair with the codons on mRNA.
4. Identify the correct description: Among the given options, the description that matches the definition of an anticodon is 'A sequence of three nucleotides on tRNA that is complementary to a codon on mRNA.'
5. Review the function of mRNA, DNA, and rRNA: mRNA carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, DNA contains the genetic blueprint, and rRNA is a component of ribosomes that helps in protein synthesis. None of these directly describe the anticodon.