How is information stored and coded in DNA and genes?

A. In sets of three nucleotides called codons

B. In amino acids that are bonded together to form proteins

C. as mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA

D. By an RNA polymerase

I am stuck between A and B, but am pretty confident on A as the answer, any input is welcome! Thanks!

Great question! To understand how information is stored and coded in DNA and genes, let's break it down.

DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) carries the genetic information in all living organisms. It is made up of a sequence of building blocks called nucleotides. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and one of four nitrogenous bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), or guanine (G).

Genes, which are specific segments of DNA, provide instructions for making proteins. Proteins are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of cells and tissues in our bodies.

Now, let's take a look at the given options:

A. In sets of three nucleotides called codons:
This answer is correct! Information is stored and coded in DNA in sets of three nucleotides called codons. Each codon represents a specific amino acid or a signal to start or stop protein synthesis.

B. In amino acids that are bonded together to form proteins:
This is also correct! Genes contain the instructions for building proteins. Proteins are made up of amino acids that are bonded together in a specific sequence dictated by the information stored in genes.

C. as mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA:
These are types of RNA molecules involved in the process of protein synthesis. mRNA (messenger RNA) carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes, where protein synthesis occurs. tRNA (transfer RNA) acts as a translator, carrying specific amino acids to the ribosome based on the instructions provided by the mRNA. rRNA (ribosomal RNA) is a structural component of the ribosomes, which are the site of protein synthesis.

D. By an RNA polymerase:
RNA polymerase is an enzyme that transcribes DNA into RNA molecules, particularly mRNA. It is involved in the process of converting the genetic information stored in DNA into a form that can be used to synthesize proteins.

In conclusion, while all of the options are related to the storage and coding of genetic information, the most accurate answer for how information is stored and coded in DNA and genes is A. In sets of three nucleotides called codons. However, it's worth noting that B. In amino acids that are bonded together to form proteins is also correct because proteins are built from the amino acids encoded by the codons in genes.