What is the function of DNA in living organisms?

DNA plays a crucial role in living organisms by carrying genetic information that determines biological functions and traits. It serves as the blueprint for the development, functioning, and reproduction of all known forms of life. This genetic material is organized into genes, each of which contains specific instructions for making proteins, which are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of the organism's cells, tissues, and organs.

The sequences of nucleotides in DNA encode the information necessary for synthesizing proteins, which in turn influence everything from physical characteristics to metabolic processes. The hereditary nature of DNA allows traits to be passed from one generation to the next, ensuring continuity and variation in populations over time. Understanding this function of DNA highlights its central role in biology and genetics.