Protein Folding Pathways in the Presence of Osmolytes

The mechanism of how and why proteins fold is not understood very well. However, the importance of folded proteins cannot be overemphasized. Their role in maintaining and sustaining life, as we know it, is invaluable. Misfolding of proteins is associated with several severe disorders. Thus, efforts are on to elucidate the folding mechanisms of proteins and employing small (and large) molecules to improve the stability of the folded conformation. This chapter discusses the basic concepts of protein folding and the theories of action of osmolytes altering this landscape. Some examples, highlighting the need and scope for further research in this area are also presented.