Definitions

1. noun

An enzyme that breaks down the bacterial cell wall, often causing the cell to lyse or burst.

“The research team studied the autolysin that bacteria produce to defend themselves against other microorganisms.”

2. noun

A proteolytic enzyme that breaks down proteins within a cell, often leading to cell autolysis.

“The process of autolysin in the cell helped to recycle damaged proteins and maintain cellular homeostasis.”