The role of Fleming in medicine - 1928 Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in The role of Fleming in medicine - 1928 Deck (3)
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1
Q

Who was Alexander Fleming?

A

Alexander Fleming was a Scottish scientist, who discovered the antibiotic properties of penicillin in 1928. He was an army doctor in the First World War, where he saw many men die of infection caused by the staphylococcus bacteria, and wanted to help.

2
Q

How did Fleming discover penicillin?

A

One day in 1928 by chance, a fungal spore had landed on one of his staphylococcus culture plates in his lab. After two weeks he noticed that the colonies of staphylococcus had stopped growing around the penicillium notatum (a green mould).

3
Q

What problems did Fleming face?

A

1) It was difficult to grow enough penicillium (the fungus) for effective research.
2) Penicillin appeared to take time to have an effect, and its effectiveness was limited when mixed with blood.
3) Fleming was unable to get funding for more research.