Autolysis

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Autolysis

Autolysis (pronounced: au·tol·y·sis, /ɔːˈtɒlɪsɪs/) is a biological process in which cellular enzymes within a cell break down the cell itself. The term is derived from the Greek words auto (self) and lysis (loosening or to unbind).

Etymology

The term "Autolysis" is derived from the Greek words auto meaning 'self' and lysis meaning 'to unbind'. It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the process of self-digestion where a cell's own enzymes lead to its destruction.

Process

Autolysis occurs when a cell's own enzymes are released into the cell cytoplasm due to the breakdown of the cell membrane. These enzymes then begin to break down cellular components, leading to the destruction of the cell. This process is often seen in pathological conditions such as necrosis and apoptosis.

Related Terms

  • Enzymes: Biological molecules that catalyze (i.e., increase the rates of) chemical reactions.
  • Cell membrane: The semipermeable membrane surrounding the cytoplasm of a cell.
  • Necrosis: The death of most or all of the cells in an organ or tissue due to disease, injury, or failure of the blood supply.
  • Apoptosis: A process of programmed cell death that occurs in multicellular organisms.

See Also

External links

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