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Introduction to Toxicology
Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:25
Abstract
Introduction to how chemical properties and biological interactions govern the disposition and influences of toxicants.
Objective
The objectives are for the student to establish a framework for examining adverse effects resulting from exposures to toxicants by understanding key mechanisms that give rise to toxic responses and disease processes. In the course "Introduction to Toxicology", the competencies of process understanding, system understanding, concept development, data analysis & interpretation and measurement methods are taught, applied and examined.
Content
This course will introduce mechanisms governing the chemical disposition and biological influences of toxicants. The course is geared toward advanced bachelors students in food science, environmental science, and related disciplines, such as chemistry, biology and pharmaceutical sciences. Examples of topics include: dose-response relationships and risk assessment, absorption, transport, and biotransformation of xenobiotic chemicals; Carcinogenesis; DNA damage, repair, and mutation; Immunotoxicity; Neurotoxicity; and modern toxicity testing strategies. These fundamental concepts in Mechanistic Toxicology will be integrated with examples of toxicants relevant to food, drugs and the environment.
Resources
Literature
Casarett & Doull's Toxicology, The Basic Science of Poisons. Seventh Edition. Editor: Curtis D. Klaassen, 2008, McGraw-Hill. (available on-line)
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- BSC , MSC , NDS
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
- Mode
- written 105 minutes
- Aids
- None
- Digital
- The exam takes place on devices provided by ETH Zurich.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Introduction to Toxicology |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Electives (The list of electives is not exhaustive, also other courses can be chosen from the course catalogue: SiP-courses are only counted in the category "Science in Perspective". Practical sports courses are only counted in the sub-category Sports Practice (max. 6 ECTS).)
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Module: Nutrition and Health (Students majoring in Human Health, Nutrition and Environment: At least one of the courses listed in this module must be selected.)
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