Toxicity and Disease

Recommended Prerequisites

First Cycle in Biology or Biochemistry or other area of Life Sciences, or 

basic knowledge of Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Physiology and Biochemistry.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical classes with the presentation\explanation\discussion of cutting-edge topics in the area.

In theoretical-practical classes students will discuss articles \ cutting-edge topics in the field. Elaboration of a scientific research project written and present \ defend in oral presentation to all students of the edition (panels shall be appointed for this purpose, among the students of the discipline).

The laboratory standpoint it is intended that students use knowledge prior to performing an autonomous work, including planning of experiments, obtaining and critical discussion of results.

Learning Outcomes

Concepts, methodologies and strategies that are used both in theoretical,  either in the practical component of this course, besides allowing to understand the  molecular mechanisms of various diseases, are fundamental to understanding the mechanisms of action and toxicity biotransformation of drugs and other compounds.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Basic principles of toxicology

Cases in medical toxicology

Model systems and organisms in toxicology

Mitochondrial Biology and Cell Death Pathways: “The basics”.

PGC-1alpha: Metabolic transcription regulation by a cofactor

BAT: A new hope for obesity?

Ischemia/reperfusion: mechanisms of tissue injury

Potential protection and metabolic imbalance during liver regeneration

Mitochondrial morphology and dynamics: implications for disease.

Metabolism regulation and disease: the role of genetic mechanisms.

Metabolic syndrome: A Reversible Life-Threatening Condition.

Diseases of the brain.

Neuroprotective strategies.

Head Lecturer(s)

Carlos Manuel Marques Palmeira

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Project: 50.0%
Exam: 50.0%

Bibliography

- Mechanistic Toxicology, Boelsterli, U.A. (Ed.), Taylor & Francis, U.K. (2005);

- Basic Medical Biochemistry (Second edition), Smith C., Marks A.D. and Lieberman;

- M. (Eds.), Lipincott Williams & Wilkins, New York (2005);

- Mitochondria in Health and Disease, Berdanier C. (Ed.), CRC Press, USA (2005).