Overview
Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) are glycoproteins that are found in cold-blooded animals and protect them from freezing temperatures. They work by inhibiting the formation of ice crystals in the organism, enabling it to survive and function in freezing environments. AFPs have been widely studied due to their potential applications in food and biopharmaceutical industries. They can be used to reduce ice formation in food processing and harvesting, allowing for better yields and improving the quality of food products. In biopharmaceuticals, AFPs can be used to protect proteins and cells from freezing temperatures, allowing them to remain stable and usable at cold temperatures. In addition, they may also be used in cryopreservation of tissues, cells, and organs, allowing them to be preserved at very low temperatures without damage.