Final answer:
Denaturation is the process by which a protein loses its shape and can no longer perform its function. It can be reversible or irreversible, depending on the conditions. Different proteins denature under different conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a protein is subject to changes in temperature, pH, or exposure to chemicals, it may lose its shape, a process called denaturation. The primary structure of the protein is not changed by denaturation but some or all of the folding is lost. Denaturation is often reversible, allowing the protein to resume its function. Sometimes denaturation is irreversible, leading to permanent loss of function. One example of irreversible protein denaturation is cooking an egg white. Different proteins denature under different conditions. For example, bacteria from hot springs have proteins that function at temperatures close to boiling. Although stomach acid denatures proteins as part of digestion, the digestive enzymes of the stomach retain their activity under these conditions.