Denature
(verb)
- To change the natural properties or characteristics of a substance, especially by chemical means.
- To alter the natural state of a substance or organism.
Origin:
From de- + nature.
Examples:
- The protein was denatured by heating it to high temperatures.
- The alcohol was denatured by adding chemicals to it.
- The enzyme was denatured by changes in pH.
- The DNA was denatured by heating it up.
- The virus was denatured by exposing it to UV light.