Lysis

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Lysis is a process in biology where a cell breaks down, often by viral, enzymic, or osmotic mechanisms that compromise its integrity. A fluid containing the contents of lysed cells is called a "lysate".

Types of Lysis[edit | edit source]

There are several types of lysis, including:

  • Osmotic lysis: occurs when a cell bursts due to an osmotic imbalance that has caused excess water to move into the cell.
  • Cytolysis: occurs when a cell bursts due to chemical reaction.
  • Oncolysis: refers to the destruction of neoplastic cells or of a tumour.
  • Plasmolysis: is the contraction of cells within plants due to the loss of water through osmosis.
  • Autolysis: is the destruction of cells through the action of their own enzymes.
  • Apoptosis: is a form of programmed cell death or "cell suicide".
  • Necrosis: is the death of cells or tissues from severe injury or disease, especially in a localized area of the body. Causes of necrosis include inadequate blood supply, bacterial infection, traumatic injury, and cancer.

Lysis in Pathology[edit | edit source]

In pathology, lysis refers to the breakdown of cells or tissues caused by disease. For example, hemolysis is the breakdown of red blood cells.

Lysis in Virology[edit | edit source]

In virology, lysis refers to the process by which a virus breaks open a cell and reproduces itself. This is known as viral lysis.

Lysis in Biochemistry[edit | edit source]

In biochemistry, lysis refers to the breaking down of a molecule or compound into smaller parts.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Lysis Resources
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Contributors: Bonnu, Prab R. Tumpati, MD