adjective
- relating to or caused by autolysis; involving the breakdown of cells or tissues by their own enzymes
Usage: technical; biology; biochemistry
Examples
- Autolytic enzymes in the yeast cells break down the cell wall during fermentation.
- The autolytic process helps bread dough develop flavor and texture during long fermentation.
- Autolytic degradation of muscle tissue occurs after death in a process called rigor mortis.
- Brewers use autolytic rest periods to allow autolytic enzymes to improve beer quality.
- The autolytic breakdown of proteins in aged cheese contributes to its distinctive taste.