Living Environment Regents Practice Test

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Prepare for the Living Environment Regents Test. Study using flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and thorough explanations. Ace your exam!

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What is the function of the protein endolysin?

To aid in the growth of skin cells
To destroy bacteria by breaking down their cell walls
To prevent the formation of acne
To enhance the production of sebum

The correct answer is: To destroy bacteria by breaking down their cell walls

Endolysin is a type of enzyme produced by bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect bacteria. The primary function of endolysin is to target and degrade bacterial cell walls, leading to the lysis, or breaking down, of the bacterial cells. This mechanism is a critical step in the lifecycle of bacteriophages, allowing them to release new viral particles after the host bacteria have been destroyed. By specifically breaking down peptidoglycan, a key component of bacterial cell walls, endolysins can effectively kill bacteria, making them a promising tool in the fight against bacterial infections. This action is particularly useful in medical and biotechnological applications, including the development of novel antibacterial therapies. Other options related to skin cell growth or acne prevention do not pertain to the function of endolysin and are therefore not relevant to its primary role.