If there are 999 bases in an RNA that code for a protein with 333 amino acids, and the base at position 901 is deleted such that the length of the RNA becomes 998 bases, how many codons will be altered?

When a single base is deleted from an RNA sequence, it causes a frameshift mutation, altering the reading frame of the codons downstream of the deletion.

This shift changes the grouping of nucleotides into codons, resulting in a completely different amino acid sequence from the point of mutation onward. Consequently, all subsequent codons are affected, leading to a significant alteration in the protein produced.

Answer: c) 333

Explanation:

• Frameshift Mutation: A single base deletion shifts the reading frame, changing the codon sequence downstream of the mutation.
• Impact on Protein: All 333 codons after the deletion are altered, potentially leading to a nonfunctional protein.