Final answer:
Protein modifications can occur during and after translation, and can affect the function and stability of a protein. The native state of a protein is its fully folded, functional structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Modifications to proteins can occur at various stages, including during and after translation. Post-translational modifications like phosphorylation can alter the function, stability, and activity of a protein.
The native state of a protein refers to its fully folded, functional structure. When a protein loses its native state, it becomes denatured and may no longer perform its intended biological role.