What structures of a protein molecule are destroyed by denaturation?
June 27, 2020 | Education
| The degree of denaturation depends on the intensity of the acting factor and can be reversible and irreversible. Irreversible denaturation occurs under the influence of various chemicals (concentrated solutions of acids, alkalis, salts of heavy metals), high temperatures, and radiation. At the same time, all structures, protein are destroyed, the electric charges of its molecules are changed, which leads to their coalescence and coagulation. At temperatures above 40-50 ° C, many proteins coagulate, i.e., denature irreversibly. Light metal salts and dilute solutions of acids and alkalis cause reversible denaturation, and when the exposure factor is removed, the protein restores its properties and functions.
