autolysis

[aw-tol-uh-sis]

autolysis Definition

the destruction of cells or tissues by their own enzymes, especially after death or as a result of a pathological condition.

Using autolysis: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "autolysis" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Autolysis is a natural process that occurs in the body after death.

• Example

  The breakdown of cells during autolysis releases enzymes that can cause further damage to surrounding tissues.

• Example

  Autolysis can also occur in living tissue as a result of certain diseases or injuries.

Phrases with autolysis

• autolytic enzyme

  an enzyme that breaks down cells or tissues from the same organism

  Example

  The autolytic enzyme released during autolysis can cause further damage to surrounding tissues.

• postmortem autolysis

  the process of autolysis that occurs after death

  Example

  Postmortem autolysis is a natural process that occurs in the body after death.

• pathological autolysis

  the process of autolysis that occurs as a result of a pathological condition

  Example

  Pathological autolysis can occur in living tissue as a result of certain diseases or injuries.

Origins of autolysis

from Greek 'auto-' meaning 'self' and 'lysis' meaning 'loosening'

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Summary: autolysis in Brief

'Autolysis' [aw-tol-uh-sis] refers to the destruction of cells or tissues by their own enzymes, especially after death or as a result of a pathological condition. It is a natural process that occurs in the body after death, but can also occur in living tissue as a result of certain diseases or injuries. Phrases like 'autolytic enzyme' and 'postmortem autolysis' are used to describe specific aspects of this process.