Antibiotics - historical perspective Flashcards
What triggered the golden age of antibiotic research?
The discovery of Penicillin in 1920
Who discovered Penicillin?
Alexander Flemming
How did Flemming discover Penicillin?
One of his Staphylococcus cultures had been contaminated by a fungus called Penicillium notatum
This had created a halo around the culture were no bacteria was growing - inhibition zone
The mould had produced a mould juice that prevented the bacteria from growing
What is another discovery that Flemming made?
He discovered Lysozyme, a naturally produced antimicrobial, when he cultured his own nasal mucous
This enzyme was not very effective against pathogenic bacteria
How does Penicillin work?
Penicillin targets the membrane protein DD-transpeptidase.
This rebuilds the peptidoglycan cell membrane of the bacteria following replication.
Penicillin binds to this protein via covalent bonds.
The inhibition of this protein by penicillin weakens the bacterial membrane and causes the bacteria to rupture.
Who suggested the term antibiotic?
Wacksman
What did Pasteur discover?
Pateurisation. Convinced the souring of milk was due to the build up of lactic acid made by the multiplying bacteria.
Also discovered that certain bacteria could grow without oxygen
Concluded that airborne particles were cause of the spoilage of foods
Made association between food spoilage and disease. Airborne particles were also cause of disease.
What did Lister discover?
Based on Pasteurs work developed antiseptics.
Observed high rates of blood poisoning in hospital patients
Developed carbolic acid, first antiseptic used to sterilize hands and equipment in preparation for surgeries.
How were antibiotics used in history?
Moulds were used by Greeks and Indians to cure infections
Mouldy bread was used by Greeks and Serbians to treat wounds and infections
Warm soil was used in Russia to treat infections by patients
What is an important metal used throughout history as an antiseptic?
Silver
What has silver been used for in history?
Treat wounds, fractures, brain infections, blood purifier and treatment of heart palpitations.
