Which of the following is an effect of autolysis on tissues?

Autolysis refers to the breakdown of cells and tissues by their own enzymes, typically following death. The most significant effect of this process is the softening and liquefying of tissues, which occurs as enzymes break down cellular structures and connective tissue components. This enzymatic activity leads to the degradation of proteins and other macromolecules, resulting in a loss of structural integrity and a more fluid state of the affected tissues.

As tissues undergo autolysis, they can become more easily manipulated and may transform into a semi-liquid state, which can complicate embalming processes and ultimately affect the preservation methods used by morticians. Understanding this process is crucial in mortuary science, as it underscores the importance of timely intervention to preserve the deceased and maintain tissue integrity for viewing and burial.

In contrast, other options such as strengthening cell membranes or enhancing structural integrity directly contradict the nature of autolysis, since the process involves the breakdown rather than the fortification of cellular structures. Staining of tissues can occur due to various factors but is not a direct effect of the autolytic process; rather, it's more related to environmental factors or the presence of other substances. Thus, the softening and liquefying of tissues accurately represents the primary outcome of