What term is given to the unfolding of proteins?

Denaturation

The correct answer is option 3. Denaturation.

The term given to the unfolding of proteins is Denaturation.

Denaturation refers to the process by which proteins lose their native structure, typically due to external factors such as heat, pH changes, or exposure to chemicals. Denaturation does not involve breaking of peptide bonds but rather disrupts the non-covalent interactions (such as hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and disulfide bonds) that maintain the protein's specific shape and function.

Renaturation refers to the process by which a denatured protein can regain its native structure and function under suitable conditions, such as restoring optimal pH or temperature.

Reduction and oxidation are processes involving changes in the oxidation state of atoms or molecules and are generally associated with chemical reactions rather than the structural changes seen in denaturation.

Therefore, the correct term for the unfolding of proteins is Denaturation.