Since it was deciphered four decades ago, some
have claimed that the genetic code must be a frozen acci-
dent, while others have argued that it was shaped by nat-
ural selection. A striking feature of the genetic code is its
inherent resistance to the effects of mutation. For example,
a change in the third position of a codon often specifies the
same amino acid or one with similar chemical properties.
The natural code resists mutation more effectively (is less
susceptible to error) than most other possible versions, as
illustrated in Figure Q1–1. Only one in a million comput-
er-generated “random” codes is more error-resistant than
the natural genetic code. Does the extraordinary mutation
resistance of the genetic code argue in favor of its origin as
a frozen accident or as a result of natural selection? Explain
your reasoning.
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