Final answer:
The correct examples of antibiotics derived from fungi are Penicillin and Cephalosporin, representing choice A. Penicillin was discovered by Alexander Fleming and is produced by the mold Penicillium, while cephalosporins come from the fungus Acremonium.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided for antibiotics derived from fungi, A. Penicillin and cephalosporin are the correct examples. Penicillin, discovered by Alexander Fleming, is a well-known antibiotic produced by the mold Penicillium. It has been pivotal in the treatment of bacterial infections since its increase in production during World War II. Similarly, cephalosporins are a group of ß-lactam antibiotics derived from Acremonium, which was previously known as Cephalosporium.
Lovastatin and compactin, mentioned in option B, are not antibiotics but are instead cholesterol-lowering agents. Aspergillus, mentioned in option C, is a genus of fungi that includes various species which have industrial and medical significance. However, compactin is not an antibiotic but again, a statin used for cholesterol management. Finally, while penicillin is an antibiotic, compactin is not, making option D incorrect.
It is important to note that antibiotics kill bacteria and are critical to treating bacterial infections, while statins are used to manage cholesterol levels. Both penicillin and cephalosporins act by inhibiting cell wall synthesis in bacteria, leading to cell lysis and death.