Molecular and genetic aspects of protein cold denaturation.

The phenomenon of cold-induced denaturation of proteins is reviewed. Examples of low temperature-induced changes in quaternary, tertiary and secondary structure of protein molecules are cited. Genetic aspects of cold-stability and functioning of structural proteins and enzymes from cold-tolerant organisms under low temperature conditions are discussed. Disorganisation of supramolecular assemblies under low-temperature influence is considered as one of the key factors contributing to cell cold-induced injuries.