Question

Explain denaturation of protein with an example.

Answer 1

To answer this question, you must recall the denaturation of proteins. Denaturation is the process of the loss of the structure of a protein molecule due to change in the surrounding atmosphere like an increase in the temperature or a decrease in pH. The protein molecule loses its secondary, tertiary or quaternary structure during denaturation. There are many examples of denaturation in daily lives.

Complete answer:
Denaturation is the process of the loss of the quaternary structure, tertiary structure, or secondary structure of a protein or a nucleic acid that is present in its native state due to the application of external force or energy on the compound. Denaturation can be made to occur by the action of stress, any strong acid or strong base (change in pH), a concentrated salt, any organic solvent like chloroform or alcohol, radiation or extreme heat.
Example: A common example of denaturation of a protein is the hardening of an egg when it is subjected to high temperature. The high temperature acts as external stress and breaks the bonds causing the albumin to change its structure and solidify.

Note:
Denaturation of proteins can lead to changes in wide ranges of characteristics from changes in the conformation and loss of solubility causing aggregation which is because of the exposure of hydrophobic groups. The denaturation of a protein in a living cell causes disruption in the cell activity and may lead to death of the cell. A protein molecule on denaturation loses its three dimensional structure and thus cannot function properly.