PHA3800 · Fundamentals of toxicology

Overview

Toxicology is the biological, chemical and pharmacological study of poisons. This unit presents the broad science of contemporary toxicology to facilitate the understanding of the principles and mechanisms of the action of poisons on specific organ systems. It examines the response of each body system to poisons and the specific effects of a wide range of toxic agents - from pesticides to radiation. In addition sources of toxins, toxicokinetics, toxicity testing and risk assessment are studied to enable you to understand how to predict and eliminate the potential risk of toxicity to humans and animals. The topics are organized into several thematic chapters which include general principles of toxicology, dispositions of toxicants, non-organ-directed toxicology, target organ toxicity, toxic agents, environmental toxicology and applications of toxicology.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Understand the basic principles of toxicology, risk assessments of general toxicants, and the behavioural mechanisms of various toxicants targeting different organ systems in order to propose appropriate safety precautions;
2. Understand the general toxicokinetics and biotransformation of xenobiotics in whole organisms, as well as how toxic agents alter genetic materials and growth development that may affect different stages of carcinogenesis;
3. Critically evaluate the adverse effects of chemicals, metals, radioactive materials, and animal and plant toxins on living organisms;
4. Demonstrate an understanding towards the application of toxicology in real world scenario;
5. Collaborate effectively in teamwork by engaging in practical activities and investigate projects that address real world scenarios through the lens of contemporary toxicology, and communicate observations and findings in the form of written reports and presentations.

Workload

• Nine and three quarter hours of independent study; • One-hour tutorial session and • Five 3-hour practical sessions per week.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.