What is the primary function of DNA in living organisms?

The primary function of DNA in living organisms is to carry genetic information. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, serves as the blueprint for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known living entities. It contains the instructions necessary for producing proteins, which are essential for various biological functions and processes within the cell.

DNA sequences, known as genes, encode the information that determines inherited traits and characteristics. When a cell needs to produce a specific protein, it transcribes the relevant DNA sequence into messenger RNA (mRNA), which then guides the synthesis of that protein in a process called translation. This flow of genetic information from DNA to RNA to protein is central to molecular biology and is crucial for the functioning of organisms.

While some of the other options mention important biological activities related to genetics or metabolism, they do not capture the fundamental role of DNA in directly carrying and storing genetic information essential for life.