Several agents are commonly used to induce denaturation:
1. Heat: Elevated temperatures can disrupt hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. 2. pH Changes: Extreme pH levels can alter the ionization states of amino acids, disrupting ionic bonds. 3. Chemical Denaturants: Substances like urea and guanidine hydrochloride can interfere with hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions. 4. Detergents: SDS (Sodium dodecyl sulfate) can disrupt hydrophobic interactions, leading to protein unfolding.
