Study for the Medical Chemistry Test. Explore multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get exam-ready with engaging quizzes and comprehensive study materials.

Multiple Choice

DNA and RNA molecules can be found in which of the following?

DNA and RNA are present throughout living cells, not limited to a single location. DNA carries the genetic blueprint and is housed mainly in the nucleus, but mitochondrial DNA shows that nucleic acids aren’t confined to one organelle. RNA is produced in the nucleus and functions in the cytoplasm and at ribosomes for protein synthesis. In humans, essentially all cells that are alive contain DNA, and RNA is produced as needed in these cells. So, DNA and RNA can be found in every cell of the human body. A practical note is that mature red blood cells lack a nucleus and mitochondria, so they don’t contain DNA or much RNA, but the broad pattern across most body cells supports the answer. The other options restrict nucleic acids to a single location, which isn’t accurate given their distribution.

DNA and RNA are present throughout living cells, not limited to a single location. DNA carries the genetic blueprint and is housed mainly in the nucleus, but mitochondrial DNA shows that nucleic acids aren’t confined to one organelle. RNA is produced in the nucleus and functions in the cytoplasm and at ribosomes for protein synthesis. In humans, essentially all cells that are alive contain DNA, and RNA is produced as needed in these cells. So, DNA and RNA can be found in every cell of the human body. A practical note is that mature red blood cells lack a nucleus and mitochondria, so they don’t contain DNA or much RNA, but the broad pattern across most body cells supports the answer. The other options restrict nucleic acids to a single location, which isn’t accurate given their distribution.