What feature is NOT characteristic of DNA?

The correct choice highlights that the pairing of bases to form duplexes is indeed a characteristic of DNA. DNA's structure is fundamentally based on the pairing of nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine) that form the rungs of the double helix ladder. These pairs, through specific hydrogen bonding (adenine with thymine, and cytosine with guanine), create a stable duplex structure that is essential for DNA replication and function.

The other features outlined in the choices are also characteristic of DNA. Anti-parallel strands refer to the orientation of the two strands of DNA, where one strand runs in the 5’ to 3’ direction and the other in the 3’ to 5’ direction. The phosphate backbone provides structural support and stability, with the bases extending outwards from it. The nuclear location refers to the presence of DNA in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells, where it is housed and protected, allowing for complex regulation of gene expression.

However, the choice correctly emphasizes that while base pairing is essential to the DNA structure, the framing of the question and focus on characteristics like anti-parallel strands, a phosphate backbone, and nuclear location allows for a misunderstanding of the defined