Which molecule stores genetic information and passes it to offspring?

Which molecule stores genetic information and passes it to offspring?

• A. DNA
• B. RNA
• C. Protein
• D. Lipid

Answer: (A)

Genetic information is stored in DNA and passed to offspring through replication. The sequence of nucleotides in DNA holds the instructions for making proteins and regulating cellular processes. Because DNA is structured as a stable double helix, it can be accurately copied by enzymes during cell division, ensuring that daughter cells receive an almost exact copy. In reproduction, DNA from the parents is packaged into gametes and transmitted to the offspring, providing the hereditary material that defines inherited traits. RNA can carry genetic information in some viruses and acts as a messenger or catalyst in cells, but it does not serve as the stable, long-term storage blueprint that is reliably transmitted across generations in most organisms. Proteins and lipids meet essential cellular roles, but they do not carry the heritable information needed to direct inheritance. DNA uniquely combines durable storage with faithful replication, making it the molecule that stores genetic information and passes it to offspring.

Genetic information is stored in DNA and passed to offspring through replication. The sequence of nucleotides in DNA holds the instructions for making proteins and regulating cellular processes. Because DNA is structured as a stable double helix, it can be accurately copied by enzymes during cell division, ensuring that daughter cells receive an almost exact copy. In reproduction, DNA from the parents is packaged into gametes and transmitted to the offspring, providing the hereditary material that defines inherited traits.

RNA can carry genetic information in some viruses and acts as a messenger or catalyst in cells, but it does not serve as the stable, long-term storage blueprint that is reliably transmitted across generations in most organisms. Proteins and lipids meet essential cellular roles, but they do not carry the heritable information needed to direct inheritance. DNA uniquely combines durable storage with faithful replication, making it the molecule that stores genetic information and passes it to offspring.