temperaturesensitive

Temperature-sensitive is a descriptor for systems whose properties change with temperature. In biology, chemistry, materials science, and engineering, temperature sensitivity denotes a functional response to thermal variation. The term is usually written with a hyphen (temperature-sensitive); some instances in software or product names may appear concatenated as temperaturesensitive, though this is not standard.

In genetics, temperature-sensitive mutations produce functional defects at restrictive temperatures but function at permissive temperatures. This allows study of essential genes. Temperature-sensitive enzymes and organisms limit growth or activity to certain temperatures.

Thermoresponsive polymers undergo phase transitions at specific temperatures; LCST or UCST. Below/above the transition they change solubility, swelling, or hydrophilicity. Applications include drug delivery, tissue engineering, and smart coatings.

In electronics, temperature sensitivity refers to components like thermistors whose resistance changes with temperature; used for temperature sensing and compensation.

Sensory neurons express temperature-sensitive ion channels (TRP channels) that respond to heat or cold, enabling thermoreception.

Quantifying temperature sensitivity uses metrics like Q10, or derivative dR/dT; designers consider stability, hysteresis, and safety in devices and materials.