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Multiple Choice
What did the experiments of Griffith and Avery demonstrate about the nature of genetic information in organisms?
A
Genetic information is stored in carbohydrates.
B
Genetic information is stored in DNA.
C
Genetic information is stored in lipids.
D
Genetic information is stored in proteins.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the historical context: Frederick Griffith's experiments in 1928 involved the transformation of non-virulent bacteria into virulent forms, suggesting a 'transforming principle' that carried genetic information.
Review Griffith's experiment: He used two strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, one virulent (S strain) and one non-virulent (R strain). When he killed the S strain with heat and mixed it with the live R strain, the R strain became virulent.
Consider the implications: Griffith's work suggested that some component of the dead S strain was able to transform the R strain, but it was not clear what this component was.
Examine Avery's follow-up experiments: Oswald Avery and his colleagues, in the 1940s, isolated different macromolecules from the S strain (DNA, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates) to determine which was responsible for transformation.
Conclude Avery's findings: Avery demonstrated that only DNA from the S strain could transform the R strain into a virulent form, leading to the conclusion that DNA is the molecule responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information.