https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.D01586
The process of partial or total alteration of the native structure of a macromolecule resulting from the loss of tertiary or tertiary and @S05530@ that is a consequence of the disruption of stabilizing weak bonds. Denaturation can occur when @P04898@ and @N04245@ are subjected to elevated temperature or to extremes of pH, or to non-physiological concentrations of @S05447@, organic solvents, urea or other chemical agents.
Sources:
PAC, 1992, 64, 143. (Glossary for chemists of terms used in biotechnology (IUPAC Recommendations 1992)) on page 151 [Terms] [Paper]
PAC, 1994, 66, 2587. (Glossary of bioanalytical nomenclature - Part 1: General terminology, body fluids, enzymology, immunology (IUPAC Recommendations 1994)) on page 2593 [Terms] [Paper]