Who established that RNA can be genetic material?

Options

A. Griffith
B. Conrat
C. Lederberg
D. Nirenberg and Mathaei

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks who established that RNA can serve as genetic material. This is a key concept in molecular biology, particularly in the study of viruses.

2. **Identifying the Context**: RNA is known to be the genetic material in some viruses, which distinguishes it from DNA, the genetic material in most organisms. The question specifically refers to the discovery related to RNA.

3. **Reviewing the Options**: The options provided are Griffith, Conradt, Lederberg, and Nirenberg and Mithai. We need to identify which of these scientists is associated with the discovery that RNA can be genetic material.

4. **Historical Context**: The discovery of RNA as genetic material is primarily linked to the study of the Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV), which is a virus that infects plants, particularly tobacco.

5. **Identifying the Scientist**: The American plant virologist who is credited with establishing that RNA can be genetic material is Frankel Conradt. He conducted research on TMV and concluded that RNA serves as its genetic material.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the historical context and the contributions of the scientists listed, the answer to the question is Frankel Conradt.

**Final Answer**: Frankel Conradt established that RNA can be genetic material.

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