24. Streptomyces Avermitilis: Parasite Paralysis
This soil bacterium produces avermectin, which paralyzes parasitic worms by affecting their nervous systems. Scientists modified it to create ivermectin, which treats river blindness and scabies. The discovery earned a Nobel Prize in 2015. Ivermectin has treated millions in developing countries, preventing blindness and skin disease. While primarily used for parasitic infections, its misuse during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of evidence-based medicine.