Which macromolecule stores genetic information and directs protein synthesis?

• A. Nucleic Acids
• B. Proteins
• C. Lipids
• D. Carbohydrates

Answer: (A)

Nucleic acids store genetic information and direct protein synthesis. The DNA in cells holds the genetic blueprint in its sequence of nucleotides, which is copied during replication. When a gene is expressed, the information is transcribed into messenger RNA, which then travels to ribosomes. There, the sequence on the mRNA is read and translated into a specific protein with the help of transfer RNA and ribosomal RNA. Lipids and carbohydrates serve energy storage and structural roles, while proteins perform many cellular functions but do not carry genetic information themselves. Because nucleic acids are responsible for both storing the information and directing how that information is used to build proteins, they are the correct macromolecule.