Mechanistic Toxicology, 7.5 credits

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
After the completion of the course the student should

• be able to describe, explain and discuss basic concepts and principles in toxicology,
• demonstrate a deeper understanding of toxicokinetics, toxicodynamics and biotransformation,
• be able to describe human detoxification systems and how these works and be able to describe and discuss how toxic substances can enter the human body and exert their effect at the molecular, cellular, organ and organism level, and
• be able to discuss, describe and explain concepts in toxicological risk assessment and safety assessment at a fundamental level.

Skills and Abilities
After the completion of the course the student should be able to demonstrate the ability to

• give examples of and be able to describe different mathematical extrapolation models that can be used in estimating toxicological health risks,
• describe and discuss the concepts of sustainable development in toxicology and "green toxicology",
• independently find and compile scientific information, and
• communicate results, compilations and interpretations in the form of oral and written presentation.

Evaluation ability and approach
After completing the course, the student has the ability to

• evaluate and criticize both experimental results and theoretical interpretations, and
• search and evaluate relevant scientific information in the field.

Content

The course is focused on describing the mechanisms that explain the toxicological effects in various biological systems. In addition to the human body's detoxification systems, mechanisms for uptake, distribution and biotransformation as well as the secretion of foreign chemicals are studied during the course. In addition to this, tissue-specific toxicology, chemical carcinogenesis, birth defects, and disorders of reproduction and nervous system are also discussed. The course provides an overview of the basics of toxicology and methods used to study toxic effects on biological systems.

Examinations and grades

Mechanistic Toxicology, Theory, 5 credits (Code: A003)
Grades used are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Mechanistic Toxicology, Practical, 2.5 credits (Code: A004)
Grades used are Fail (U) or Pass (G).

According to the Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 18, a grade is to be awarded on the completion of a course, unless otherwise prescribed by the university. The university may determine which grading system is to be used. The grade must be determined by a teacher specifically nominated by the university (the examiner).

In accordance with university regulations on grading systems for first and second-cycle courses and study programmes (Vice-Chancellor’s decision ORU 2018/00929), one of the following grades is to be used: fail (U), pass (G) or pass with distinction (VG). For courses included in an international master’s programme (60 or 120 credits) or offered to the university’s incoming exchange students, the A to F grading scale is to be used. The vice-chancellor, or a person appointed by them, may decide on exceptions from this provision for a specific course, if there are special grounds for doing so.

The grades used on this course are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Comments on grades

The final grade of the course is based on the grade on Mechanistic Toxicology, Theory, provided that Mechanistic Toxicology, Practical is Passed.

Modes of assessment

• Mechanistic Toxicology, Theory (code A003): Written exam
• Mechanistic Toxicology, Practical (code A004): Oral examination, practical examination and written assignment

 

If a student is absent from a mandatory course component, the examiner determines if the student will be able to make up for the component during another scheduled class of the same kind. Otherwise, the student is referred to the next time the course is offered. As an exception the examiner may decide on substitute assignments. These shall then be carried out before or shortly after the end of the course.

For students with a documented disability, the university may approve applications for adapted or other modes of assessment.

For further information, see the university's local examination regulations.

Specific entry requirements

15 credits in biology where at least 2.5 credits from Eukaryotic Cell Biology, 7.5 credits and 2.5 credits from course in Physiology are included.

For further information, see the university's admission regulations.

Other provisions

Students who have been admitted to and registered on a course have the right to receive tuition and/or supervision for the duration of the time period specified for the particular course to which they were accepted (see, the university's admission regulations (in Swedish)). After that, the right to receive tuition and/or supervision expires.

Transitional provisions

Language of Instruction are Swedish and English. The course is given in English if there are exchange students registered on the course.

Reading list and other learning resources

Required Reading

Klaassen, Curtis D. & Watkins, John B. (Latest edition)
Casarett & Doull's Essentials of Toxicology
McGraw-Hill Medical

Additions and Comments on the Reading List
Laboratory instructions and other material will be added.