Nucleic acids — mainly DNA and RNA — play a central role in genetic inheritance, as they carry, store, and express the genetic information that determines all traits in living organisms.
Here’s a explanation of how they do this:
- DNA Stores Genetic Information:
- DNA contains the genetic blueprint of an organism.
- The sequence of its nitrogen bases (A, T, G, and C) forms genes, which determine traits like eye color, blood type, or enzyme activity.
- Each cell in the body contains the same DNA, which ensures consistency in inherited traits.
- DNA Replication Enables Inheritance:
- Before a cell divides, its DNA is copied (replicated).
- This ensures that each new cell — and, in reproduction, each offspring — receives an exact copy of the genetic information.
- This process is the basis of heredity.
- RNA Helps Express Genetic Information:
- DNA does not directly make proteins — it uses RNA as a messenger.
- mRNA (messenger RNA) carries the genetic code from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm.
- tRNA (transfer RNA) and rRNA (ribosomal RNA) help translate that code into proteins, which carry out the cell’s functions.
- Proteins Determine Traits:
- The proteins made from RNA instructions control the structure and function of cells.
- These proteins are what make inherited traits visible — such as hair texture or enzyme efficiency.
In short:
Nucleic acids control inheritance by:
- Storing genetic information (DNA),
- Copying and passing it to new cells or offspring (replication), and
- Using it to make proteins (via RNA) that determine traits.
So, nucleic acids are the molecules of heredity — they ensure that genetic information is accurately transmitted from one generation to the next and expressed in each living organism.