The pressure dependence of hydrophobic interactions is consistent with the observed pressure denaturation of proteins

Abstract

Proteins can be denatured by pressures of a few hundred MPa. This finding apparently contradicts the most widely used model of protein stability, where the formation of a hydrophobic core drives protein folding. The pressure denaturation puzzle is resolved by focusing on the pressure-dependent transfer of water into the protein interior, in contrast to the transfer of nonpolar residues into water, the approach commonly taken in models of protein unfolding. Pressure denaturation of proteins can then be explained by the pressure destabilization of hydrophobic aggregates by using an information theory model of hydrophobic interactions. Pressure-denatured proteins, unlike heat-denatured proteins, retain a compact structure with water molecules penetrating their core. Activation volumes for hydrophobic contributions to protein folding and unfolding kinetics are positive. Clathrate hydrates are predicted to form by virtually the same mechanism that drives pressure denaturation of proteins.