Which term means the decomposition of sugars?

Which term means the decomposition of sugars?

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

Answer: (C)

Saccharolysis is the breakdown of sugars. The prefix saccharo- means sugar and -lysis means to break down, so it literally describes the enzymatic cleavage of carbohydrates into simpler sugars. This is distinct from fermentation, which is a metabolic process that converts sugars into other products like acids or alcohol, often with energy release, and from autolysis (self-digestion of cells) and proteolysis (protein breakdown).

Saccharolysis is the breakdown of sugars. The prefix saccharo- means sugar and -lysis means to break down, so it literally describes the enzymatic cleavage of carbohydrates into simpler sugars. This is distinct from fermentation, which is a metabolic process that converts sugars into other products like acids or alcohol, often with energy release, and from autolysis (self-digestion of cells) and proteolysis (protein breakdown).