Denatured

Definition

In the context of proteins, denaturing refers to the process whereby a protein loses its native 3D structure due to external factors such as changes in pH, temperature, or chemical exposure. This alteration can lead to the loss of biological activity or function.

Related terms

Primary Structure: The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain, representing the most basic level of protein structure.

Secondary Structure: Regularly repeating local structures stabilized by hydrogen bonds, such as alpha-helices and beta-sheets.

Tertiary Structure: The overall three-dimensional structure of a polypeptide, including all its folds and bends that contribute to its final functional form