Final answer:
DNA contains the instructions for making proteins, which determine the structure and function of cells and traits displayed by organisms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between DNA and proteins is vital for all living organisms. DNA contains the instructions (genes) for making proteins. These proteins determine the structure and function of cells, as well as the traits displayed by organisms. The flow of information for protein synthesis follows the central dogma, which is DNA to mRNA to protein.