Denaturation (Biochemistry)

Syllable breakdown

Dictionary meaning

The process by which a protein or nucleic acid loses its native three-dimensional structure due to exposure to external stress such as heat, extremes of pH, or chemical agents. Denatured proteins typically lose their biological function because the active site or binding regions are disrupted.

Examples

• Cooking an egg causes denaturation of its proteins, turning the clear albumen opaque and solid.
• Enzyme denaturation at high temperatures is why fever can be dangerous to cellular function.