In cells, what is the primary role of RNA (ribonucleic acid) in gene expression?

• A. It forms the main structural component of the cell membrane by assembling into a phospholipid bilayer.
• B. It is the long-term storage molecule for hereditary information and is replicated to pass traits to offspring.
• C. It helps convert genetic information in DNA into proteins by acting as an intermediate (e.g., mRNA) and by participating directly in translation (e.g., rRNA and tRNA).
• D. It catalyzes the breakdown of glucose during glycolysis to generate ATP in the cytosol.

Answer: (C)