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  • During evolution, why DNA was chosen over RNA as genetic material? Give reasons by first discussing the desired criteria in a molecule that can act as genetic material and in the light of biochemical differences between DNA and RNA.

During evolution, why DNA was chosen over RNA as genetic material? Give reasons by first discussing the desired criteria in a molecule that can act as genetic material and in the light of biochemical differences between DNA and RNA.

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The desired criteria in a molecule that can act as genetic material are as following:

  • It should have the capability of replication.
  • It should be chemically and structurally stable.
  • It should be able to incorporate slow changes (mutation) which are required for evolution.
  • It should be able to express itself in the form of Mendelian characters.

Biochemistry of DNA and RNA:

  • Both DNA and RNA show complementarity of base pairs and hence are capable of replication.
  • As shown by Griffith's experiment, DNA is more stable than RNA because it could survive even heat-killing during the experiment.
  • 2'-011 group is present in RNA. This makes RNA labile and degradable, which is not the case with DNA.
  • Both RNA and DNA can carry on mutations. But DNA being more stable is better suited for long term storage of mutations.

Hence, DNA was preferred as the genetic material during the course of evolution.

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