What molecule is responsible for carrying genetic information in cells?

The molecule responsible for carrying genetic information in cells is DNA. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, serves as the primary storage medium for genetic instructions in living organisms. Its structure consists of a double helix formed by two strands of nucleotides, which include a phosphate group, a sugar, and nitrogenous bases. The sequence of these nitrogenous bases encodes the genetic information that dictates the development, functioning, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses.

DNA is crucial because it not only stores the instructions necessary for building the molecules that make up the cells but also plays a key role during cell division, ensuring that genetic information is accurately replicated and passed on to offspring. Other molecules, such as RNA, play important roles in protein synthesis and other functions, but DNA is the fundamental blueprint that carries the complete genetic instructions necessary for life.