BIOCHEMISTRY HEALTH & DISEASE A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site penicillin 3D model of penicillin. Created by Michael Ströck and released under the GFDL An antibiotic agent derived from a mold of the genus Penicillium. The first antibiotic to be discovered (by Alexander Fleming in 1928), it was later developed in a soluble form and can now be produced synthetically. It is effective in combating a wide range of bacterial infections by interfering with cell wall production by bacteria. Penicillin can produce allergic reactions, including itching and (rarely) potentially fatal shock. Because some microorganisms have become resistant to its action, other antibiotics are often used instead. Related categories    • BIOCHEMISTRY    • HEALTH AND DISEASE Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP