NS 6110 - Molecular Toxicology

(crosslisted)
(also TOX 6110)

Spring. 3 credits.

S. Bloom, D. Muscarella, B. Strupp.

Focuses on metabolism of drugs and environmental chemicals to toxic and mutagenic products and how they can induce developmental and reproductive alterations or carcinogenesis. Signaling pathways that regulate cellular responses to toxicant exposure are discussed. Also emphasizes molecular markers useful for assessment of human exposure to chemicals and radiation.

Outcome 1: Provides necessary background in basic principles, terminology, and types measurements or endpoints in toxicology studies.

Outcome 2: Provides a logical flow of material to illustrate the sequence of events and interactions of toxicants as they move through a biological system. This includes metabolism of toxicants, molecular targets for binding of metabolites and the signaling pathways that become activated that determine ultimate effects on cell function and viability. Examples of effects of toxicant exposures on human health are provided. A range of possible health outcomes is discussed from adverse drug side effects on organ functions to development of particular types of cancer. Moreover, identification of novel drug targets in disease-related signaling pathways is discussed.