A de novo designed protein with a slightly imperfect helix is able to keep ice crystals in check, Wageningen and Eindhoven researchers report in PNAS.

Preventing damage due to the formation of ice crystals, both during freezing but perhaps even more so during thawing, is relevant for all kinds of materials that need to function or remain intact at sub-zero temperatures. Natural ice-binding proteins are therefore a favourite source of inspiration for developing new forms of antifreeze compounds, that are, for example, suitable for the preservation of donor organs.