Penicillium chrysogenum life-saving fungi

Some moulds can be used in the pharmaceutical industry, including Penicillium chrysogenum, best known for its role in antibiotic production.

Image: Wim van Egmond

How does Penicillium chrysogenum produce penicillin?

Modern medicine owes much to microbes. Antibiotics, for instance, were first discovered in Penicillium moulds. Even today, these microbes are used in the production of antibiotics. Penicillin, one of the most important antibiotics, is produced with the help of Penicillium chrysogenum. Additionally, this mould is also used in the production of other medicines.

The discovery of "Mouldy Mary" 

Over the years, various Penicillium moulds capable of producing penicillin have been discovered. The P. chrysogenum strain discovered by Mary Hunt could produce 200 times more penicillin than the mould Alexander Fleming originally found. She discovered this strain on a cantaloupe she bought at the market, earning her the nickname ‘Mouldy Mary’. This mould has been used in penicillin production for over 50 years.

Fruits and vegetables

P. chrysogenum is commonly found on fruits and vegetables, where it causes them to rot. Its appearance depends on the nutrients it consumes. Mary Hunt described the mould as having a "beautiful golden appearance." However, it is more often recognised as a green mould.

Fermented meat

While P. chrysogenum causes unwanted rot in fruits and vegetables, it can also be used in fermentation. In the fermentation of meats, such as duck or chicken, this mould influences the meat's texture and firmness.

A healthy mould?

Penicillium chrysogenum is a highly versatile organism with various uses. However, exposure to this mould can also make people ill, causing allergic reactions, for example. This diverse mould is not for everyone!

See this mould for yourself!

Would you like to see Penicillium chrysogenum up close? Visit ARTIS-Micropia, the only museum in the world where you can explore microbes in all their glory. Get your tickets today and be amazed by the world of microscopic life.