denaturant

verb (used with object), de·na·tured, de·na·tur·ing.

1. to deprive (something) of its natural character, properties, etc.
2. to render (any of various alcohols) unfit for drinking by adding an unwholesome substance that does not alter usefulness for other purposes.
3. Biochemistry. to treat (a protein or the like) by chemical or physical means so as to alter its original state.
4. to make (fissionable material) unsuitable for use in an atomic weapon by mixing it with unfissionable material.

verb (tr)

1. to change the nature of
2. to change (a protein) by chemical or physical means, such as the action of acid or heat, to cause loss of solubility, biological activity, etc
3. to render (something, such as ethanol) unfit for consumption by adding nauseous substances
4. to render (fissile material) unfit for use in nuclear weapons by addition of an isotope

v.

1878, in modern sense, from French dénaturer (Old French desnaturer “change the nature of; make unnatural”); see de- + nature. Earlier “to make unnatural” (1680s). Related: Denatured.

v.

1. To change the nature or natural qualities of.
2. To render unfit to eat or drink without destroying usefulness in other applications, especially adding methyl alcohol to ethyl alcohol.
3. To alter the chemical structure of a protein, as with heat, alkali, or acid, so that some of its original properties, especially its biological activity, are diminished or eliminated.

1. To cause the tertiary structure of a protein to unfold, as with heat, alkali, or acid, so that some of its original properties, especially its biological activity, are diminished or eliminated.
2. To cause the paired strands of DNA to separate into individual strands.