Testing the limitations of artificial protein degradation kinetics using known-age massive Porites coral skeletons

► We compare protein degradation in heated modern, and naturally aged Porites coral. ► Heating to 140 °C does not compromise the integrity of the closed-system. ► We use a new approach that fits relative rates to estimate temperature dependence. ► Protein degradation patterns change over the temperatures investigated (26-140 °C). ► We observe different temperature sensitivities for hydrolysis and racemization.