The first true antibiotic, penicillin, was discovered by Alexander Fleming.
While the concept of using mold to treat infections had been noted in ancient practices, like the Egyptians using moldy bread poultices, it was not until 1928 that a scientific breakthrough occurred.
Here's a breakdown of the key points:
- Ancient Knowledge: The use of mold in treating infections was an observed practice in ancient times.
- Alexander Fleming's Discovery: In 1928, Alexander Fleming, a Professor of Bacteriology at St. Mary's Hospital in London, discovered penicillin. This is recognized as the first true antibiotic.
Therefore, while the concept wasn't new, the scientific identification and isolation of penicillin by Alexander Fleming marked the beginning of the antibiotic era.
