Domagk

Definition

Gerhard Domagk was a German pathologist and bacteriologist who discovered the antibacterial effects of Prontosil, the first commercially available antibiotic. His work led to the development of sulfonamide drugs, which marked the beginning of modern antimicrobial chemotherapy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gerhard Domagk won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1939 for his discovery of Prontosil.
2. Prontosil was the first synthetic drug used to treat bacterial infections.
3. Domagk's research on Prontosil demonstrated that dyes could be modified to create effective antibacterial agents.
4. The discovery of Prontosil paved the way for the development of other sulfa drugs, significantly reducing mortality from bacterial infections.
5. Domagk's work established the foundation for subsequent antibiotic discoveries and advancements in chemotherapy.

Review Questions

• What significant medical breakthrough is Gerhard Domagk known for?
• Which type of drug did Prontosil belong to?
• How did Domagk's discovery impact the treatment of bacterial infections?

Related terms

Prontosil:

The first commercially available antibiotic discovered by Gerhard Domagk.

Sulfonamides:

A group of synthetic antimicrobial drugs derived from Prontosil.

Chemotherapy:

The use of chemical substances to treat disease, particularly microbial infections and cancer.