[Campbell Biology P.56] The text explains that "For many genes, the sequence provides the b... | Practice Question

The text explains that "For many genes, the sequence provides the blueprint for making a protein." It further provides examples: "a given bacterial gene may specify a particular protein such as an enzyme required to break down a certain sugar molecule, while one particular human gene may denote an enzyme, and another gene a different protein an antibody, perhaps that helps fight off infection." Which statement best summarizes the relationship between genes and proteins based on this information?

  • A: Genes contain the instructions for producing specific proteins that carry out various cellular functions.
  • B: Proteins are the direct units of inheritance passed from parents to offspring.
  • C: All genes in an organism directly encode for enzymes involved in metabolism.
  • D: The primary role of proteins is to replicate DNA before cell division.

Explanation

The text highlights that genes serve as blueprints for proteins, and proteins, in turn, perform diverse functions like breaking down sugar or fighting infection, underscoring their role in cellular activities and overall organism function.