This is the syllabus used in conjunction with educational content offered by JHSPH. As a result, some of the information and/or materials listed here may not be relevant to or available for an OCW user's self-directed study.
Syllabus
Course Description
Examines basic concepts of toxicology as they apply to environmental toxicology. Discusses distribution, cellular penetration, metabolic conversion, and elimination of toxic agents, as well as the fundamental laws governing the interaction of foreign chemicals with biological systems. Focuses on the application of these concepts to the understanding and prevention of mortality and morbidity resulting from environmental exposure to toxic substances through a case study format.
Course Objectives
After completing this course, students will be able to do the following: 1. Describe the chemical properties and the biological processes which modulate the toxicokinetics of chemical agents of public health importance. 2. Explain the significance of biotransformation reactions as a determinant of the toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic activities of chemicals. 3. Describe molecular, cellular and pathophysiological responses resulting from exposure to chemical agents relevant to human health. 4. Identify underlying susceptibility factors which contribute to the ability of chemicals to elicit bioeffects which contribute to human disease. 5. Explain the science underlying testing for the ability of chemicals to elicit adverse human health effects. 6. Put into perspective the role of toxicology in the risk assessment process.
Prerequisites
Background in chemistry (particularly organic chemistry) and biology useful.
Readings
Primary Text (required)
- Essentials of Toxicology. Klaassen CD, Watkins JB III, eds. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003.
Additional References (not required):
- Casarett and Doull's Toxicology-The Basic Science of Poisons, 6th Edition. Klaassen CD, ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2001.
- Staying Healthy in a Risky Environment: The New York University Medical Center Family Guide. Upton AC, Graber E, eds. New York: Simon and Schuster.
- Environmental Medicine: Integrating a Missing Element into Medical Education. Pope AM, Rall DP, eds. Washington DC: National Academy Press
Course Requirements
Assignment: Making it Real Project
Closed-book midterm examination
Closed-bookcomprehensive final examination
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