What roles do DNA and RNA play in protein synthesis?

• A. DNA synthesizes proteins directly while RNA regulates gene expression
• B. DNA stores genetic information while RNA is involved in protein synthesis
• C. DNA and RNA both transport amino acids to the ribosome
• D. DNA acts in cell division while RNA has no role in protein synthesis

Answer: (B)

In the process of protein synthesis, DNA and RNA serve complementary but distinct roles. DNA is the molecule that contains the genetic blueprint for all organisms, housing the instructions needed to build proteins. This genetic information is crucial as it dictates the specific sequence of amino acids that will form a protein.

RNA comes into play by acting as a messenger between the DNA and the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized. Specifically, messenger RNA (mRNA) is transcribed from the DNA in the nucleus, carrying the coded instructions required for protein synthesis to the ribosome in the cytoplasm. Once at the ribosome, transfer RNA (tRNA) translates the mRNA sequence into a polypeptide chain by bringing in the appropriate amino acids based on the codons of the mRNA.

Therefore, the assertion that DNA stores genetic information while RNA is involved in protein synthesis accurately captures the fundamental roles of these two nucleic acids in the process of creating proteins within the cell.