What is the primary function of DNA in living organisms?

What is the primary function of DNA in living organisms?

• A. To store genetic information
• B. To generate energy
• C. To transport nutrients
• D. To protect against disease

Answer: (A)

The primary function of DNA in living organisms is to store genetic information. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, serves as the blueprint for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known organisms and many viruses. It is composed of two long strands forming a double helix, and within these strands are sequences of nucleotides that encode the instructions necessary for synthesizing proteins. These proteins play crucial roles in various biological processes, including the structure and function of cells and tissues. The information stored in DNA is passed from one generation to the next during replication, ensuring that offspring inherit genetic traits from their parents. This genetic information is vital not only for the maintenance of biological characteristics but also for the adaptation and evolution of species over time. In the context of the other choices, generating energy is primarily the role of cellular metabolism rather than DNA. The transportation of nutrients involves different biological molecules and processes, such as the circulatory system in animals. Protection against disease is mostly handled by the immune system, although DNA plays a role in coding for various proteins that can aid in the immune response. However, the central purpose of DNA remains its role in the storage and transmission of genetic information.

The primary function of DNA in living organisms is to store genetic information. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, serves as the blueprint for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known organisms and many viruses. It is composed of two long strands forming a double helix, and within these strands are sequences of nucleotides that encode the instructions necessary for synthesizing proteins. These proteins play crucial roles in various biological processes, including the structure and function of cells and tissues.

The information stored in DNA is passed from one generation to the next during replication, ensuring that offspring inherit genetic traits from their parents. This genetic information is vital not only for the maintenance of biological characteristics but also for the adaptation and evolution of species over time.

In the context of the other choices, generating energy is primarily the role of cellular metabolism rather than DNA. The transportation of nutrients involves different biological molecules and processes, such as the circulatory system in animals. Protection against disease is mostly handled by the immune system, although DNA plays a role in coding for various proteins that can aid in the immune response. However, the central purpose of DNA remains its role in the storage and transmission of genetic information.