Multilevel effects of environmental contamination

The main objectives of the course are to provide:
1. the bases of animal biological organization: from cell to aquatic and terrestrial animal models, including tissue/organ and developmental biology notions;
2. the principles of contaminant exposure/effects on biological systems;
3. the evaluation of biological models as indicators of environmental changes affecting the ecosystems and the human health.

At the end of the course the student will acquire the basic knowledge of animal biology organization and will be able to fully understand the different topics in a transversal way, in order to critically apply in the future knowledge and comprehension of biota/environment interactions and of contaminant impact on biological systems. Such abilities will be acquired during lessons where each topic will be transversally presented in order to stimulate questions and comments on current appropriate topics. Critical abilities as well as communication skills will be stimulated and evaluated during the examination. Finally, the transversal and applicative approach of the learned topics will allow the student to develop useful skills for future learning and work.