Which biological molecule is primarily responsible for storing genetic information?

Nucleic acids are the primary molecules responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information in living organisms. These include DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) and RNA (ribonucleic acid). DNA serves as the blueprint for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known organisms and many viruses. It is structured as a double helix, consisting of sequences of nucleotide bases that carry specific genetic instructions.

The specific arrangement of these bases encodes the information necessary for building proteins, which carry out a vast range of functions within cells. While RNA also plays a critical role in various processes related to gene expression and regulation, it is DNA that predominantly serves the long-term storage of genetic information.

Other biological molecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, play essential roles in various life functions, but they do not store genetic information. Proteins function as enzymes, structural components, and signaling molecules; carbohydrates provide energy and structural support; and lipids serve in energy storage, membrane structure, and signaling. Thus, nucleic acids are unique in their role of carrying and preserving the coded information necessary for life.