VBSC 230The Science of Poisons

3 credits · Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences · Penn State

An introduction to toxicology using real world examples to highlight the impact of toxicants on environmental, biochemical and physiological processes. VB SC 230 The Science of Poisons (3) Toxicology is the study of poisons (natural and man-made) and how these agents adversely affect living organisms. It involves the prevention of harm and the development of measures to assess risk. As a science it borrows from many disciplines including biochemistry, chemistry, epidemiology, genetics, and physiology. It also has great societal impact with regard to the development and testing of consumer products, exposure to industrial chemicals, and maintaining safe food and water. The course format will be lectures that incorporate real world examples of the effects of toxicant exposure on many levels (cell, organ, whole body, environmental). Students will be evaluated by quizzes,exams, and class participation. Students are required to have a basic understanding of biology and chemistry. The course is offered once per year in the Fall semester.