Adipocere formation in a body submerged in water preferentially involves which biochemical process?

• A Hydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids to saturated fatty acid waxes mediated by gut bacteria
• B Oxidative rancidity of triglycerides forming peroxide and aldehyde compounds
• C Protein-lipid cross-linking forming a waxy-protein complex
• D Saponification — alkaline hydrolysis of body fats to form hydroxy fatty acid soaps ✓

Explanation

Adipocere (corpse wax/saponification) forms when body fat undergoes hydrolytic decomposition in anaerobic, moist, warm conditions. Triglycerides are hydrolysed by tissue lipases and bacterial enzymes; the resulting fatty acids (particularly palmitic, stearic, and hydroxylated derivatives) combine with calcium and ammonium ions to form insoluble soap-like wax. This is chemically alkaline hydrolysis (saponification). Adipocere preserves body contours and slows decomposition. It begins within weeks to months depending on conditions.

Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.