SBIK10154U Basic Pharmacology and Toxicology

Volume 2013/2014
Education
MSc Programme in Biology-Biotechnology - semi-compulsory
Content
The course consists of lectures, exercises and cases. Lectures cover the following areas:

1. General pharmacology
2. Drug targets
3. The drug development process
4. General toxicology
5. The drug-manufacturing process

The lectures are supported by exercises and cases in the same topics.
Learning Outcome
The main objective in basic pharmacology and toxicology is to provide an introduction to pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) and pharmacodynamics including dose / response relationships. In toxicology the in vitro and in vivo test methods are introduced and the estimation of threshold levels. Identification of biomarkers and target molecules and organs will also be included. Examples of different chemical groups and their targets, toxicity, and risks are discussed

Knowledge
- Describe basic pharmacological and toxicological principles
- List drug targets
- Summarize the drug development process
- Describe in vitro and in vivo toxicity tests – threshold levels
- Identify targets for toxicity and biomarkers 

Skills
- Apply correct pharmacological and toxicological terminologies
- Explain pharmacological and toxicological principles
- Demonstrate knowledge of toxicological testing 
- Analyze test results
- Estimate threshold levels and assess risks

Competences 
- Discuss basic pharmacological and toxicological principles
- Perform basic pharmacokinetic calculations
- Apply toxicological tests to identify target for toxicity and find threshold levels
- Discuss risk
- Evaluate biomarkes and their use (pharmacological and toxicological)
Literature
A number of original articles together with the book:

Leon Brimer (2011). Chemical Food Safety. CAB International, wallingford, UK. (ISBN 978 1 84593 676 1
The course consists of lectures and teoretical case studies. In particular the case studies will require some self study and homework.
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Exam
  • 4
  • Lectures
  • 40
  • Preparation
  • 102
  • Theory exercises
  • 60
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Written examination, 4 hours under invigilation
Written exam with essay type questions and short questions. Pocket calculator necessary.
Weight: Written exam 100 %.
Aid
All aids allowed
Marking scale
7-point grading scale
Censorship form
External censorship
Criteria for exam assesment
See learning outcome