"Two out of three": an alternative method for codon reading.

Abstract

An alternative method for codon reading, whereby only the first 2 condon nucleotides are recognized by the anticodon, is discussed and the experimental evidence for this 2 out of 3 reading method is reviewed. Misreading of codons by the 2 out of 3 method could pose a significant threat to the fidelity of protein synthesis unless the genetic code is organized in such a way as to prevent this method from being used when it might compromise translational fidelity. The genetic code is arranged in such a way that the 2 out of 3 reading method can be used without translational errors.