Definitions

1. verb

to break down or decompose a substance, especially a protein, within its own cells or in a solution of its own enzymes.

“The scientist decided to autolyze the protein to study its structure.”

2. noun

the process of breaking down or decomposing a substance, especially a protein, within its own cells or in a solution of its own enzymes.

“Autolyze played a crucial role in the development of new medical treatments.”