Question

The globular proteins undergo structural changes, in response to extremes of pH or temperature, are called as

• A. Renaturation
• B. Denaturation
• C. Both A and B
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Denaturation

The globular proteins undergo structural changes, in response to extremes of pH or temperature, this is called as denaturation. Denaturation is a process in which proteins or nucleic acids lose the quaternary structure, tertiary structure and secondary structure which is present in their native state, by application of some external stress or compound such as a strong acid or base, a concentrated inorganic salt, an organic solvent, radiation or heat. If proteins in a living cell are denatured, this results in disruption of cell activity and possibly cell death. Denatured proteins can exhibit a wide range of characteristics, from conformational change and loss of solubility to aggregation.

So, the correct answer is 'Denaturation'