Non-microbial decomposition that breaks lysosomes down to cell enzymes describes which process?

Non-microbial decomposition that breaks lysosomes down to cell enzymes describes which process?

• A. Autolysis
• B. Fermentation
• C. Saccharolysis
• D. Lipolysis

Answer: (A)

Autolysis is the self-digestion of cells and tissues by the cell’s own lysosomal enzymes. When a cell is damaged or dies, the lysosomal membranes can rupture and release hydrolytic enzymes (proteases, nucleases, lipases, etc.) that break down the cell’s own components. This non-microbial decomposition is driven by the cell’s internal machinery rather than by bacteria or other organisms, which is why it’s described as autolysis. The other options don’t fit this description: fermentation involves microbial metabolism producing byproducts like acids or alcohol; saccharolysis isn’t the standard term for this process and would imply sugar breakdown but not the self-digestion of cellular structures; lipolysis refers specifically to fat breakdown, not broad self-digestion of the cell.

Autolysis is the self-digestion of cells and tissues by the cell’s own lysosomal enzymes. When a cell is damaged or dies, the lysosomal membranes can rupture and release hydrolytic enzymes (proteases, nucleases, lipases, etc.) that break down the cell’s own components. This non-microbial decomposition is driven by the cell’s internal machinery rather than by bacteria or other organisms, which is why it’s described as autolysis.

The other options don’t fit this description: fermentation involves microbial metabolism producing byproducts like acids or alcohol; saccharolysis isn’t the standard term for this process and would imply sugar breakdown but not the self-digestion of cellular structures; lipolysis refers specifically to fat breakdown, not broad self-digestion of the cell.