What does it mean when the genetic code is described as degenerate?

The description of the genetic code as degenerate refers to the phenomenon where multiple codons can specify the same amino acid. This characteristic is crucial for understanding how protein synthesis works.

For instance, there are 64 possible codons (combinations of three nucleotides), but there are only 20 standard amino acids that proteins are made from. This means that there are instances where different codons—such as GGU, GGC, GGA, and GGG—all encode for the same amino acid, glycine. Such redundancy in the genetic code provides a buffer against mutations; if a change occurs in the DNA sequence, it's possible that the resulting codon still codes for the same amino acid, thereby not affecting the protein produced.

This degeneracy of the genetic code enhances the stability of genetic information and reflects the evolutionary adaptability in the coding of proteins. Understanding this aspect of the genetic code is essential in genetics and molecular biology, as it underlines the complexity and robustness of the processes underlying life.