Widely used in cell culture laboratories to prevent bacterial contamination in media. Added to culture systems to inhibit the growth of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Commonly used in research settings involving mammalian cell lines to maintain sterile conditions. Also utilized in selective media for isolating specific cell types where bacterial control is critical. Its broad-spectrum activity makes it a standard component in many antibiotic-antimycotic mixtures for in vitro applications.