autolysis noun. [ɔ:'tɒlɪsɪs] E20.
[from AUTO-¹ + -LYSIS.]
Biology. Destruction of cells or tissues by their own enzymes, esp. as released from lysosomes.

■ autolysate noun a substance produced by autolysis E20.

■ 'autolyse [-lʌɪz] verb intrans. & trans. (cause to) undergo autolysis E20.

■ autolysin noun an enzyme causing autolysis E20.

■ auto'lytic adjective E20.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲