Multiple Choice
In nucleic acids, what is the primary role of the nitrogenous bases?
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1. Introduction to Biochemistry
Nucleic Acids
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How are proteins and nucleic acids related in the context of cellular function?
A
Proteins store genetic information that is used to synthesize nucleic acids.
B
Nucleic acids and proteins are both composed of amino acids.
C
Proteins catalyze the replication of nucleic acids, but are not influenced by them.
D
Nucleic acids store genetic information that is used to direct the synthesis of proteins.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the roles of nucleic acids and proteins in cellular function: Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, store genetic information, while proteins perform various functions including catalysis, structural support, and signaling.
Clarify the relationship between nucleic acids and proteins: DNA contains the instructions for synthesizing proteins, which are carried out through transcription (DNA to RNA) and translation (RNA to protein).
Explain transcription: During transcription, the genetic information in DNA is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA) using complementary base pairing rules. This process is catalyzed by RNA polymerase.
Explain translation: The mRNA is then used as a template to direct the synthesis of proteins at the ribosome. Transfer RNA (tRNA) brings amino acids to the ribosome, where they are assembled into a polypeptide chain based on the sequence of codons in the mRNA.
Summarize the correct answer: Nucleic acids store genetic information that is used to direct the synthesis of proteins, highlighting the central dogma of molecular biology (DNA → RNA → Protein).
