Loss of native configuration of a macro-molecule
(protein or nucleic acid) by physical or chemical means,
usually accompanied by loss of biological activity.
Denatured proteins often unfold their polypeptide
chains and express changed properties of solubility.
The separation of duplex nucleic acid molecules into
single strands. Most commonly used by genetic engineers to describe the destruction of hydrogen bonds maintaining the double-stranded nature of all or part of a DNA molecule.
