PHA3052 - Poisons and toxins

Leader(s): Associate Professor Wayne Hodgson and Dr Elizabeth Davis

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit introduces students to the discipline of toxicology. Three major topics are covered- selective toxicity; clinical toxicology and occupational and environmental toxicology. Selective toxicity covers the basis for selectivity and problems associated with resistance development as an introduction to the therapeutic use of toxins. In clinical toxicology, topics in the treatment of overdoses are discussed, as are forensic toxicology, animal venoms and plant toxins. Occupational and environmental toxicology covers the health implications related to exposure to chemical agents. Specific examples are given along with a discussion of how 'risk' maybe assessed and minimised.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students will: demonstrate an understanding of the terminology used in the fields of toxicology and toxinology; be able to explain the basis of selective toxicity and the toxic effects of drugs and chemicals; be able to explain the mechanism of action of toxins present in plants and venomous animals, have developed the skills required to critically evaluate toxicological data, have enhanced the skills required to obtain and evaluate scientific data and literature, have enhanced the skills required to work effectively in a team environment, have gained some understanding of the design, performance and evaluation of experiments to determine the mode of action of animal venoms.

Assessment

Written tests: 65%
Presentation and written assignment: 20%
Practical exercises: 15%

Contact hours

Two1-hour lectures and three hours of laboratory or self-directed learning/ tutorial per week

Prerequisites

PHA3011 and PHA3021