Methods in Ecotoxicology
A.Y. 2023/2024
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.
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.
Lesson period: First semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
First semester
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 describe the main in vitro tests end relative endpoints, their application also through integrated strategies and evaluation of emerging contaminants. Practical activity in lab will focus on in vitro toxicological approach and Non Animal Methods (NAMs).
The second part of the teaching will focus on the description of In vivo approaches, models and techniques used in standardized ecotoxicological tests, as well as on the application of biochemical and behavioral biomarkers, to explore the effects and the mechanism(s) of action of contaminants. Case studies of in vivo approach for ecotoxicity assessment of emerging contaminants will be provided. Practical activity in the lab will be aimed at the application of in vivo approaches and techniques on a freshwater model organism to assess the toxicity of an emerging contaminant.
After a description of 3Rs (Reduce, Refine, Replace) and in vitro approach in ecotoxicology, the first part of the teaching will describe the main in vitro tests end relative endpoints, their application also through integrated strategies and evaluation of emerging contaminants. Practical activity in lab will focus on in vitro toxicological approach and Non Animal Methods (NAMs).
The second part of the teaching will focus on the description of In vivo approaches, models and techniques used in standardized ecotoxicological tests, as well as on the application of biochemical and behavioral biomarkers, to explore the effects and the mechanism(s) of action of contaminants. Case studies of in vivo approach for ecotoxicity assessment of emerging contaminants will be provided. Practical activity in the lab will be aimed at the application of in vivo approaches and techniques on a freshwater model organism to assess the toxicity of an emerging contaminant.
Prerequisites for admission
Principles of ecology, toxicology, ecotoxicology are required.
Teaching methods
Course delivery methods will be based on interactive lectures and practical activity in laboratory. 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.
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
VET/07 - VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY
Practicals: 32 hours
Lessons: 32 hours
Lessons: 32 hours
Professors:
Caloni Francesca, Parolini Marco
Educational website(s)
Professor(s)
Reception:
By appointment via mail
Via Celoria 10 - Milano
Reception:
to be agreed by prior appointment via e-mail