Which statement best differentiates autolysis and putrefaction?

Which statement best differentiates autolysis and putrefaction?

• A. Autolysis is bacterial decomposition; putrefaction is enzymatic self-digestion.
• B. Putrefaction is enzymatic self-digestion; autolysis is bacterial decomposition.
• C. Autolysis and putrefaction are unrelated processes.
• D. Autolysis is the enzymatic self-digestion of cells after death; putrefaction is bacterial decomposition.

Answer: (D)