Question

Protein found in a biological system with a unique three- dimensional structure and biological activity is called a native protein. When a protein in its native form, is subjected to a physical change like change in temperature or a chemical change like, change in $pH$, denaturation of protein takes place. Explain the cause.

Answer 1

The forces which stabilises the $2^{\circ }$ and $3^{\circ }$ structures of protein are hydrogen bonds, disulphide linkages, Van der Waals forces and electrostatic forces of attraction.

When a protein in its native form, is subjected to a physical change like change in temperature or a chemical change like change in $pH$, the hydrogen bonds are disturbed. Due to this, globules unfold and the helix gets uncoiled and protein loses its biological activity. This is called denaturation of protein.

$\text{Additional Information}:$

During denaturation of a protein primary structure of protein remains intact.