#18: Penicillin
In 1928, Alexander Fleming made an incredible accidental discovery while searching for a universal cure. A discarded Petri dish in his lab revealed a mold that effectively killed surrounding bacteria, unveiling penicillin. This serendipitous moment marked the start of a significant medical advancement, shining a light on the potential of mold in combating diseases.
Sir Alexander Fleming’s subsequent experiments confirmed penicillin’s power as a formidable antibiotic against numerous bacterial infections. This accidental discovery revolutionized medicine, providing a potent weapon against deadly diseases like tuberculosis, pneumonia, and diphtheria. Today, penicillin is credited with saving over 200 million lives globally, showcasing how a chance finding can lead to monumental achievements in human health.