GED Science Practice

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What is the function of streptomycin?

To inhibit bacterial growth
To secrete perspiration
To modify impulses socially
To treat tuberculosis

The correct answer is: To treat tuberculosis

Streptomycin is an antibiotic that is primarily used to treat infections caused by certain bacteria, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which is the bacterium responsible for tuberculosis (TB). By inhibiting protein synthesis in bacteria, streptomycin effectively combats the bacteria, thereby treating and controlling the disease. It works by binding to the ribosomal subunit of the bacterium, disrupting the process of translating genetic instructions into proteins, which is essential for the bacteria's survival and reproduction. Understanding that streptomycin is used specifically for treating tuberculosis highlights its significance in the field of medicine, especially in addressing a disease that has had a major public health impact worldwide. The other functions listed, such as secreting perspiration or modifying impulses socially, are not related to the action or purpose of streptomycin, which firmly establishes its role as an antibiotic in the treatment of bacterial infections.