autolysis

[ aw-tol-uh-sis ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. the breakdown of plant or animal tissue by the action of enzymes contained in the tissue affected; self-digestion.

autolysis

/ ˌɔːtəˈlɪtɪk; ɔːˈtɒlɪsɪs /

noun

1. the destruction of cells and tissues of an organism by enzymes produced by the cells themselves

Derived Forms

• autolytic, adjective

Other Words From

• au·to·lyt·ic [awt-l-, it, -ik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of autolysis¹

First recorded in 1900–05; auto- ¹ + -lysis

Word History and Origins

Origin of autolysis¹

C20: via German from Greek autos self + lusis loosening, release

Example Sentences

The products of this autolysis are carried by the lymphatics to healthy tissues and thus may spread the infection.

From Project Gutenberg

Only in tumors in which autolysis is active intra vitam does the method exert any effect.

From Project Gutenberg

This process of self-digestion is known technically as autolysis.

From Project Gutenberg

This disintegration may be due to a process of autolysis, which sets in only after the egg has extruded the two polar bodies.

From Project Gutenberg

Such a constituent may be responsible for phagocytosis and autolysis in the organs undergoing absorption.

From Project Gutenberg