autolytic

9.9

Relating to a cell or tissue being broken down by its own chemicals

adjective
/ˌɔːtəˈlɪtɪk/

Specialized

: autolítico

The autolytic process begins when the cell's own enzymes start breaking down cellular components.

Examples

Researchers studied autolytic changes in tissue samples left at room temperature.
Certain ulcers may exhibit autolytic tissue breakdown, requiring special medical attention.
The autolytic process can occur in dead tissues.
In some cases, autolytic degradation is beneficial.
The autolytic process in aging cells can lead to the natural removal of damaged tissue.
They observed autolytic activity in the samples, indicating self-digestion by the enzymes present.
In forensic studies, pathologists examine autolytic changes to determine the time of death.

Surface Forms

autolytic positive

Morphology

autolytic = lytic (transparent) = auto + lytic

The meaning is a direct combination of 'auto-' meaning self and 'lytic' meaning dissolving or breaking down.

Etymology

The word autolytic comes from auto- meaning 'self' (as in automatic) and -lytic meaning 'to break down', so it describes when a cell or tissue 'breaks itself down' using its own enzymes.