1. the process of changing the natural structure or properties of a protein or other biological molecule, typically by heat, chemicals, or pH changes, causing it to lose its function.
Usage: common in biochemistry and molecular biology
2. the process of adding a substance to alcohol to make it unfit for drinking while preserving its industrial use.
Usage: historical; especially relevant during Prohibition

Examples

• Heat causes the denaturation of egg white, turning it from clear to opaque.
• The denaturation of proteins occurs when they are exposed to extreme temperatures.
• Alcohol denaturation was used to prevent the consumption of industrial ethanol.
• Scientists study protein denaturation to understand how diseases affect cellular function.
• The denaturation process can be reversed in some cases through renaturation.
• pH changes can trigger the denaturation of enzymes, reducing their catalytic activity.