Final answer:
The German term for Paul Ehrlich's 'magic bullet' is 'Zauberkugel'. Ehrlich's significant discovery of Compound 606, marketed as Salvarsan, was the first effective antibiotic for treating syphilis and has deeply influenced modern drug development practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paul Ehrlich's Magic Bullet and Drug Development
The concept of a "magic bullet", as introduced by Paul Ehrlich, had a revolutionary impact on drug development. This term originates from the German phrase Zauberkugel, which directly translates to 'magic bullet' in English. Paul Ehrlich's search for such a bullet led to the discovery of Compound 606, an antimicrobial agent effective against the syphilis-causing bacterium, Treponema pallidum. This compound, also known as Salvarsan, became the first real antibiotic, marking a significant milestone in medical history.
The systematic screening methodology developed by Ehrlich continues to influence the modern drug discovery process. His strategy underlies the principles for the identification of new antimicrobial agents and aligns with today's pharmacological efforts, which regularly aim to minimize the side effects of antibiotics on beneficial bacteria within the human body. Despite the realization that no medication is without some impact on symbiotic bacteria, the legacy of Ehrlich's "magic bullet" remains instrumental in ongoing advancements in medicine.