UNTIL now, no one has quite figured out how antifreeze proteins help insects, fish and plants to survive at subzero temperatures. But a detailed computer model has lent strong support to a theory that the antifreeze proteins stop the growth of ice crystals by attaching to them and forcing them to change their shape – much like a pillow is deformed when stones are placed on it.
Several organisms, including icefish and Antarctic cod, produce antifreeze proteins (AFPs) to help them survive in icy waters. Normally, the formation of ice crystals in their body fluids should rupture delicate membranes and cellular…
