Early History of Biotechnology

Historically, breakthrough scientific discoveries happened in sequential timeline. The invention of the compound microscope led to the discovery of E. Coli and the bacteria’s origin of fermentation. Protein was discovered in early 19th century, followed by chromosome in the late 19th century. Integrated with Mendel’s Law of Inheritance, chromosome theory forms the basis of modern genetics. In 1928 the discovery of penicillin from Penicillium fungi helped to rescue wounded allied soldiers and ended WWII in a timely manner.

This section starts with the invention of compound microscope in 1590, which led to the discovery of common microorganisms in 1675 and specifically E. Coli in 1855. Consequently, Louis Pasteur discovered the bacterial origin of fermentation in1862. Protein was discovered in 1830, followed by chromosome in1882. Integrated with Mendel’s Law of Inheritance, chromosome theory forms the basis of modern genetics. Finally, it must be noted that serendipitous discovery of penicillin from Penicillium fungi was made by Fleming in 1928.

Slides are provided on the link below. If you want to learn more on penicillin, you can check this article:7 ways penicillin has cured the world for 90 years.