1. Products resulting from autolysis; substances formed when cells or tissues break down their own components through the action of their own enzymes.
Usage: technical; biochemistry; plural form

Examples

• Yeast autolysates are commonly used as flavor enhancers in food manufacturing.
• The autolysates produced during fermentation contain valuable amino acids and vitamins.
• Bacterial autolysates can be analyzed to study enzyme activity and cellular composition.
• Food scientists extract autolysates from yeast to create natural seasoning compounds.
• The autolysates released during cell death contribute to nutrient cycling in the ecosystem.