What is the primary role of genes in an organism?

Genes play a crucial role in the transmission of hereditary information from one generation to the next. They are segments of DNA that contain the instructions for building proteins, which are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs. Through the process of reproduction, genes are passed from parents to offspring, determining various traits and characteristics. This transfer of genetic information is fundamental to inheritance and is responsible for the diversity seen within species. By specifying how traits are expressed, genes influence everything from physical appearance to susceptibility to certain diseases.

The other options provide functions that are not directly related to the primary role of genes. For instance, producing energy, storing fat, and aiding in digestion involve complex biochemical processes and interactions that depend on the action of proteins, which are encoded by genes, but they do not encompass the fundamental purpose of genes themselves. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the essential role of genes in genetics and inheritance, underscoring their importance in biological systems.