Using Myoglobin Denaturation to Help Biochemistry Students Understand Protein Structure

Analyzing and understanding data directly from primary literature can be a daunting task for undergraduates. However, if information is put into context, students will be more successful when developing data analysis skills. A classroom activity is presented using protein denaturation to help undergraduate biochemistry students examine myoglobin structure. Student learning goals are to understand relationships involving molar absorption coefficients and light absorbance, quantum yield and fluorescence, guanidine hydrochloride and protein folding, as well as protein folding and spectral properties of aromatic amino acids. This activity was performed by 56 students over three years. Results show statistically significant gains in student learning and student reported increased understanding.