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The secret of thermal history: Why do antifreeze proteins make water freeze at lower temperatures?
In extremely cold environments, such as the icy waters of Antarctica, some organisms are able to survive, thanks to the antifreeze proteins (AFPs) they produce. The uniqueness of this class of proteins is that they can inhibit the growth of ice crystals at temperatures below the freezing point of water, thereby helping organisms survive harsh living conditions. Scientists have conducted in-depth research on the thermal history characteristics of these proteins, revealing how they change the structure and properties of ice.
How antifreeze proteins work
Antifrosting proteins are more than just substances that lower the freezing point. These proteins bind to the surface of ice crystals, preventing their structure from growing and recrystallizing. This phenomenon is called thermal hysteresis, which refers to the difference between the melting and freezing points of ice, which can be as much as -3.5°C, allowing organisms to survive at lower temperatures. .
This is because the presence of antifreeze proteins on the surface of ice crystals inhibits the thermodynamically favorable growth of ice crystals.
Classification of organisms’ antifreeze ability
The use of antifreeze proteins allows organisms to be divided into two categories: freeze tolerant and freeze avoidant. Freeze-avoidant species are able to completely prevent their body fluids from crystallizing, while freeze-tolerant species can withstand the freezing of their body fluids, but antifreeze proteins help them reduce the damage caused by freezing.
Some studies have shown that antifreeze proteins can also interact with cell membranes to protect cells from damage by cold.
Diversity of antifreeze proteins
Scientists have discovered many different types of antifreeze proteins, mainly from fish, plants, insects and microorganisms. Taking the antifreeze glycoproteins of fish as an example, the structure and function of these proteins have evolved, resulting in each type having its own unique antifreeze ability. The antifreeze proteins of aquatic organisms help them survive in temperatures close to -30°C.
Application prospects of antifreeze proteins
With the development of biotechnology, antifreeze proteins have shown potential in many application fields, especially in food processing, medical preservation and agriculture. For example, antifreeze proteins can be used to increase the shelf life of food or to protect cells and tissues from surviving low temperatures.
Recent studies have explored the potential applications of these proteins in cold chain logistics and biomedicine.
Future Research Directions
The scientific community is working to uncover exactly how antifreeze proteins work, and what other functions they may have. By conducting in-depth research on the structure and interaction mechanism of these proteins, it may be possible to develop more effective antifreeze or protective agents in the future. As our understanding of these biomolecules deepens, the range of applications will continue to expand.
Scientific progress often prompts us to think deeply about the natural world. These amazing biological adaptations may inspire us to better cope with environmental challenges or even help us design new technologies?
