The evolution of antifreeze proteins and the inspiration for the development of novel antifreeze materials

Abstract

Uncontrolled ice formation poses a significant problem in various industries from atmospheric physics to cryobiology. Therefore, ice controlling strategies including regulating ice nucleation and controlling ice recrystallization and growth are highly pursued. In nature, antifreeze proteins (AFPs) exist in many cold-acclimated species, which can effectively control the size and shape of ice crystals, thus minimizing the deleterious effects of ice. Understanding how nature has evolved AFPs to adapt organisms to cold environments is crucial for guiding the design of novel antifreeze materials by human beings. Herein, we critically reviewed the evolutionary models underlying the development of AFPs, including escape from adaptive conflict (EAC) (primarily involving type III AFPs and Antarctic antifreeze glycoproteins, AFGPs), de novo evolution (exemplified by Arctic codfish AFGPs), horizontal gene transfer (HGT) (represented by type II AFPs and the DUF3494 family), and convergent evolution (predominantly involving type I AFPs and AFGPs). Furthermore, strategies for designing and fabricating bio-inspired antifreeze materials that mirror these evolutionary processes are also discussed. We anticipate that the insights presented here will inspire and aid in the identification of material design strategies for the future development of novel antifreeze materials.