Methods in Ecotoxicology

A.Y. 2021/2022
6
Max ECTS
48
Overall hours
SSD
BIO/07 VET/07
Language
English
Learning objectives
The main objectives of the course are:
1. to provide notions for a correct characterization and interpretation of the environmental distribution and the toxic effects of xenobiotics on the ecosystems;
2. to provide notions on the approaches that can be applied to characterize the molecular mechanisms of action of xenobiotics;
3. to provide notions on hazard identification and risk assessment of environmental pollutants.
Expected learning outcomes
It is expected that at the end of the course the student will be able to understand the different possible interactions between environmental contaminants and biota, including humans, and methods currently available to determine such interactions. The students should acquire notions for a correct characterization and interpretation of the environmental distribution and the toxic effects of xenobiotics on the ecosystems.
Single course

This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
The lessons will take place remotely synchronously using Microsoft Teams platform
Reference material:
Program and reference material will not change.
Course syllabus
The teaching, divided in two parts, aims at explain the main methodological approaches used in ecotoxicology to study the effects of environmental contaminants.
After a description of 3Rs (Reduce, Refine, Replace) and in vitro approach in ecotoxicology, the first part of the teaching will focus on the description of the main in vitro tests end relative endpoints, their application also through integrated strategies and evaluation of emerging contaminants and nanomaterials.
The second part of the teaching will focus on the description of In vivo approaches, models and techniques used in ecotoxicological tests, as well as on the analysis of application of biochemical and behavioral biomarkers, and the so-called 'OMICS' techniques. Case studies of in vivo approach for ecotoxicity assessment of emerging contaminants and nanomaterials will be provided,
Prerequisites for admission
Principles of ecology, toxicology, ecotoxicology are required.
Teaching methods
Course delivery methods will be based on interactive lectures. The student will actively partecipate in the discussion of the topics to improve the critical skills.
Teaching Resources
Didactic material available on ARIEL
Textbook:
François Gagné, 2014. Biochemical Ecotoxicology. Principles and Methods. Elsevier eds.
Assessment methods and Criteria
Student learning assessment will take place through an oral examination and knowledge of course topics will be evaluated.
BIO/07 - ECOLOGY
VET/07 - VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY
Lessons: 48 hours
Professor(s)
Reception:
By appointment via mail
Via Celoria 10 - Milano
Reception:
to be agreed by prior appointment via e-mail