Decomposition of proteins is called which term?

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

Answer: (D)

Proteolysis is the breakdown of proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids by enzymes called proteases. This term specifically describes protein decomposition, which is why it’s the correct choice. Autolysis refers to self-digestion by an organism’s own enzymes and is a related idea but not the general process by which proteins are broken down; fermentation and saccharolysis describe carbohydrate-related processes (conversion of sugars to other compounds and carbohydrate digestion, respectively).