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Name: Giselle
Status: Other
Grade:  Other
Location: FL
Country: United States
Date: October 2005
Question:
Would it be correct to say that genetic information is found in chromosomes, RNA, DNA and nucleic acids?


Replies:
DNA and RNA are both nucleic acids so it is correct to say that nucleic acids carry genetic information. DNA is the primary repository of genetic information, but this information is transferred to messenger RNA which carries the information to the ribosomes where this information is used for protein synthesis. Chromosomes are comprised of DNA and histone proteins, so it is also correct to say that chromosomes also carry genetic information.

Ron Baker, Ph.D.

Yes, absolutely.

RNA and DNA are nucleic acids (the acronyms stand for ribonucleic acid and deoxyribonucleic acid). DNA in a cell is organized into discrete structures called chromosomes. It is probably more accurate to say that genetic information is carried in the form of DNA, while RNA is involved in "reading" that information and carrying out the instructions contained there.

C. Perkins

Giselle,

I can't tell from your email your grade level, so this response is a bit difficult.

You would be correct in indicating that genetic material is encoded or present in each material/structure you mention. There is a substantial overlap in the terms you mention. You should be aware that chromosomes contain DNA which is itself composed of nucleotides containing dexoyribose sugar and is itself a nucleic acid. RNA can be one of many forms transcribed from the DNA genetic material. Some RNA's are translated (ex. mRNA) into proteins; tRNA is intimately involved in protein synthesis but is itself not translated. mRNA, having been transcribed from DNA contains genetic material, though as an edited version pointed at its ultimate target protein.

Thanks for using NEWTON!

Ric Rupnik

RNA and DNA ARE nucleic acids. Chromosomes are made of DNA. And yes, the genetic information is found in nucleic acids. Most of the DNA is found in the nucleus, but a small amount of DNA is found in the mitochondria, and the chloroplasts of plants.

vanhoeck


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