How do you Describe a situation where scientific knowledge was gained even though a hypothesis was not supported?

A notable example is the case of the drug thalidomide, initially hypothesized to be a safe sedative for pregnant women. Despite the hypothesis being disproven when it was found to cause severe birth defects, researchers gained critical insights into drug safety, the importance of rigorous testing, and the effects of medications on fetal development. This led to stronger regulatory frameworks and a deeper understanding of teratogenic effects, ultimately enhancing pharmaceutical safety protocols. Thus, while the original hypothesis failed, the resultant knowledge significantly advanced the field of pharmacology.