Peptone is a water-soluble mixture of peptides and amino acids that is derived from the hydrolysis of proteins. It is commonly used in microbiology as a nutrient source for the growth of bacteria and fungi in culture media. Peptone provides essential nutrients that support cellular metabolism and growth. In laboratory settings, peptone is often included in media formulations, such as nutrient broth and tryptic soy agar. It helps to create an optimal environment for the cultivation of microorganisms, making it a vital component in research and industrial applications, including fermentation and biotechnology.