Apparently the economically important chain reaction, wool \(+\) moths \(\rightarrow\) holes \(+\) more moths, has, as a key step, scission of the disulfide linkages of cystine in the polypeptide chains by the digestive enzymes of the moth larva. Devise a method of mothproofing wool which would involve chemically altering the disulfide linkages

To mothproof wool by chemically altering the disulfide linkages of cystine in the polypeptide chains, the following method can be used: First, convert the disulfide bonds to thiol groups using a mild reducing agent like tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine (TCEP). Then, react the thiol groups with a suitable crosslinking agent, such as divinyl sulfone, to form a more stable linkage that is less susceptible to cleavage by moth enzymes. Apply this treatment to wool fabric, allowing the chemicals to penetrate and react with the disulfide linkages within the wool fibers, and then wash and dry the fabric. The treated fabric should be more resistant to moth digestion, preventing holes and moth infestations.