PHA 558 - Principles of Toxicology: From Beaker to Bedside

Credits: 2

This toxicology elective is designed to provide the student with introductory knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of action and clinical management of poisons. The course will begin with introductory concepts such as history, mechanisms of cell injury and toxicant disposition. The student will then be exposed to the fundamental principles of managing an acutely poisoned patient. Toxicology lectures on each major organ system will prepare students for group presentations. The aims of student presentations will be to achieve a greater understanding of the clinical management of the poisoned patient, and to hone presentation skills. To the extent that is feasible, the course will involve lectures, or other learning experiences, led by external specialists. The scope of poisons that will be discussed is broad, and includes environmental toxins, industrial toxicants, and drugs. Specific agents will include heavy metals, volatile solvents, common plant toxins, rodenticides, and several drugs. Students may be expected to participate in one laboratory exercise, wherein they will learn a fundamental method to characterize the mechanism and/or extent of cell death induced by a toxicant.

Requirements: P-2 or P-3 standing or permission of instructor.