The main objective of the course is to provide in-depth knowledge of the possible effects of potentially toxic substances on living organisms present in the air, water and soil. The expected learning outcomes are the following: knowledge of the main ecotoxicological tests, knowledge of the main toxic effects caused by substances present in the environment and in the various compartments that make up the environment: air, water, soil. At the end of the course the student must be able to apply the knowledge acquired both in research and in the workplace.
Course Prerequisites
In order to understand the topics covered in the ecotoxicology course, the basic notions of ecology as well as the main metabolic processes that take place in living organisms, have to be known
Teaching Methods
The teaching uses frontal lessons with active participation of the students to stimulate interest in the teaching subjects and it proposes connections with real-life problems. Power-Point presentations are used to deliver the lessons: the teaching material will be provided to the students.
Assessment Methods
The final exam will be oral, and it will cover all the topics taught during the classes. During the exam, all the notions assimilated by the students will be evaluated, especially how the covered topics can be useful for a work activity in ecotoxicology.
Texts
There are currently no specific texts on Ecotoxicology. Some chapters covering Environmental Toxicology or Ecotoxicology can be found in General Toxicology books.
Contents
After a short introduction to the fundamental concepts of toxicology, the course will approach the study of the effects of chemicals on biological systems, both through laboratory toxicological methods and by the use of biotic indices, bioindicators and biomarkers. Then, the theoretical prediction models (QSAR and SAR), which are essential and increasingly being used for a preliminary assessment, will be presented. At last, all procedures will be outlined for the setting, both the individual substances and mixtures of toxic and environmental quality criteria. The second part of the course will be addressed to the environmental impact of potentially toxic substances. In the last part of the course the procedures for environmental risk assessment and related risk indices through environmental monitoring will be described. Finally, a mention will be made to the relationship between Ecotoxicology and social sciences (economics, politics, legislation) in decision-making of certain hazardous substances.
Course Language
Italian
More information
Whether it will be required, the professor will provide to the students the most suitable material for the preparation of the exam.
