Lysis-Cryptic Growth

Lysis of cells may occur with concomitant release of the contents of these cells. (Lysis refers to a process involving breakage of cell walls via one of several possible mechanisms, either naturally via viral infections or osmotic phenomena, or via human intervention in the form of treatment with enzymes, chemicals, or son-ication.) When lysis occurs, a microorganism may subsequently engage in a second growth phase (cryptic growth) if it is able to metabolize the cellular components released by lysis of other cells. 

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