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Asked by Robin Sparks on Jun 20, 2024

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Explain why proteins were initially hypothesized to be the genetic material instead of DNA.

Proteins

Large biomolecules consisting of one or more long chains of amino acid residues, essential for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs.

Genetic Material

The molecules (DNA or RNA) that carry the genetic instructions used in the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of organisms.

  • Explain the historical basis for the initial hypothesis that proteins, not DNA, were the genetic material.
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Marcela OrtizJun 23, 2024
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Genes were known to control the synthesis of proteins, so perhaps genes were proteins. In addition, the existence of 20 kinds of amino acids suggested that proteins had the diversity and complexity that were necessary in storing genetic information.

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