TOXICOLOGY
Study points: 7,5 Course Code: BMW32106
Coordinator: dr. M. Bol-Schoenmakers Period: 1
Examiner: dr. M. Bol-Schoenmakers Timeslot: AD
Email address: m.bol-schoenmakers@uu.nl Level: 3
Tel.nr.: 030-253 5397
Content:
We are exposed to potentially toxic compounds on a daily basis, varying from human medication to environmental pollutants or dangerous plants. The toxic potential of a compound does not only depend on the compound itself, but also on characteristics of the exposed individual. In addition to dosage and exposure route, individual characteristics as age, gender and nutrition are of importance. The mechanisms of action of a potential toxic compound are key in toxicology. When knowing the mechanisms of action, an exposure can be translated into a realistic estimate of the risk after which the risk can be communicated to the general public. Media regularly report on possible human risks of toxic compounds and include the opinion of a toxicologist, think of the PFAS contamination in soil, fipronil in eggs or industrial pollution as seen in Wijk aan Zee due to Tata Steel.
Requirements for admission:
Basic knowledge of pharmacology, of cellular processes (e.g. signal transduction and gene transcription), of organs (kidney, liver) and of neuronal, immune and endocrine organ systems is required.
Learning outcomes:
Knowledge
After following this course, the student is able to:
- use and apply various toxicological principles such as mechanism of action, dose-effect relationship;
- use existing knowledge of cellular and molecular processes to describe and explain the toxic effects in appropriate target organ (systems);
- recognize and mechanistically understand some of the most commonly occurring intoxications.
Skills
After following this course, the student is able to:
- make a preliminary risk assessment of a toxic compound using current scientific literature;
- identify and communicate the uncertainties surrounding a risk assessment to society;
- express his/her opinion on a toxicological, societal issue and formulate arguments (pro/con) in a scientific discussion;
- write and present a research proposal based on current scientific knowledge;
- set-up an experimental design to answer a specific research question that is in line with the 3R paradigm (refine, reduce, replace) on experimental animal use;
- able to provide honest and constructive feedback on the work of fellow students.
Teaching forms and contact time
Lectures and video clips will explain the toxicological principles, discuss adverse outcomes for the most prominent organ systems, and describe adverse effects of frequent toxins. Tutorials will focus on toxicology in relation to humans and the environment. Various subjects will be addressed by means of societal relevant cases, in which students are asked to apply their biomedical knowledge in answering societal challenges. In addition, students will work in small groups (3-4 students) on a research proposal on a toxicological relevant topic under supervision of a teacher.
Examination:
Written exam (60%): there will be one written exam with open questions, minimal grade 5.5
Tutorial case study (bonus): a bonus of 0.5 pnt on top of the exam grade can be gained with the assignment of a specific tutorial, but only when this exam grade > 5.5
Research proposal (40%): the written document will be assessed by the supervisor. The accompanying pitch and presentation will be assessed by peers and supervisor using rubrics. The grade will be personalized by means of a group member evaluation. Students are obliged to contribute to the group process, this will be judged by means of the group member evaluation.
Required material
Book: Casarett and Doull’s Toxicology, The Basic Science of Poisons, 8th edition, digitally available via the UU library; OR: Casarett & Doull’s Essentials of toxicology, 3th edition (ISBN 9780071847087)
Handouts of lectures will be made available via Blackboard
Video clips and tutorial assignments will be made available via Blackboard
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