The basic toxicology subjects will be approached; in vitro and in vivo tests will be described in the light of EU laws and the REACH guidelines. By the end of the course students will be able to critically evaluate toxicological profiles of drugs and xenobiotics and will learn how to document themselves through correct scientific information accredited by the scientific community. Contrast to fake news will be a primary goal. The hints of Pharmacovigilance will provide students with the tools to research and evaluate the undesirable effects of drugs and to understand the reports by AIFA and EMA.
Course Prerequisites
Knowledge of physiology, anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology and organic chemistry are required to understand the impact of drugs and xenobiotics on humans and the environment.
Teaching Methods
The course is based on lectures possibly integrated by seminars. Classroom tests, including group tests, are foreseen, not for evaluation purposes but for self-assessment of the knowledge learned during the course. Various interactive and innovative teaching techniques will also be used using the tools made available by the University (Moodle, Wooclap). There is no obligation to attend but to take the final test it is necessary to have participated in at least two classroom tests.
Assessment Methods
The Toxicology module with elements of Pharmacovigilance (6 CFU) is part of the Pharmacology and Toxicology course (12 CFU). Passing the module gives the right to acquire the corresponding 6 credits. The 12 credits attributed to the course will be acquired in full and exclusively upon passing the entire course. The right to credit the CFU attributed to the course is acquired exclusively upon passing both modules making up the course. Final exam of the module: a written test. The test can only be taken by those who have participated in at least two classroom tests. The test concerns the program carried out and the texts/chapters indicated in class for reading. The module can also be passed by taking the written tests scheduled at the beginning of the academic year during the ordinary exam sessions.
Texts
Casarett & Doull Elementi di Tossicologia Casa Editrice Ambrosiana
Contents
The course is divided into three sections. The first section deals with biotransformation reactions, identification of potentially toxic molecules and reactive groups, study of the enzymes involved in biotransformation. Apoptosis, mutagenesis, cancerogenesis and teratogenesis related to toxic exposure are also illustrated, together with the relative in vitro and in vivo tests. The second section deals with target organ toxicology: potential toxic effects of substances on organ functions will be illustrated, with relation to epidemiological data or general acute or chronic toxicity studies. A special section deals with obligatory vaccines in Italy (Legge 31 luglio 2017, n. 119). The third section deals with toxicity profiles of different molecule families such as drugs of abuse, pesticides, environmental contaminants. Food related toxicity and contamination is also illustrated. The last part of the course is dedicated to learning about Pharmacovigilance, what it is, how it works and how to activate a report, and the Italian and European sites that report the related information.
Course Language
Italian
More information
The teacher is available in her office for explanations and revisions of assignments by appointment by email. Students with SAISD certification may agree with the instructor on appropriate assessment methods.