Human physiology, pharmacology and toxicology
About the course
The course provides an in-depth knowledge regarding the pathophysiology behind the most prevalent non-communicable diseases in the population and describe the pharmacology of relevant drugs used to treat and prevent these diseases. The students will also obtain knowledge regarding physiological progression and impact of drugs and toxic compounds throughout a life course from conception to old age and describe the mechanisms of toxic effects arising from environmental and occupational exposures.
Admission requirements
The course can be taken as a singular course by students with a Bachelor´s degree in Biomedicine or similar (180 ECTS). Application code (Nordic applicants): 9371
Recommended prerequisites: Basic knowledge at University Bachelor level in physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, pharmacology and toxicology.
The minimum average grade requirement is:
C - for bachelor's degree or equivalent issued in Europe, Canada, USA, Australia and New Zealand
B - for bachelor's degree or equivalent issued in all other countries
Objectives of the course
After successful completion of the course, the student shall have achieved the following:
Knowledge
- Explain normal human physiological function of the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, hepatic and reproductive systems and describe how these functions are integrated across organ systems.
- Explain the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying major non-communicable diseases affecting the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, hepatic, and reproductive systems.
- Describe the molecular mechanisms of action, therapeutic indications, major adverse effects and interactions of the main drug classes used to treat diseases covered in the course.
- Describe the physiological and proposed molecular mechanisms of toxic effects arising from environmental and occupational exposures, including persistent organic pollutants and endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
- Explain how physiological changes across the life course—from embryonic development through aging—affect disease susceptibility, pharmacological response, and toxic vulnerability.
- Explain the physiological and anatomical features of the respiratory system that influence the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of inhaled toxicants.
- Explain how the physicochemical properties of airborne toxicants (e.g., gases, vapors, particulates, aerosols) affect their toxicity and the mechanisms for acute and chronic responses in the respiratory system.
Skills
- Analyze case scenarios by integrating physiological, pathophysiological, pharmacological, and toxicological knowledge to explain disease mechanisms and treatment outcomes.
- Recognize and categorize vulnerable groups within the human population (e.g., neonates, children, pregnant individuals, the elderly, individuals with genetic polymorphisms, and those with pre-existing conditions) and understand their unique physiological and pharmacokinetic characteristics.
- Demonstrate proficiency in applying established risk assessment frameworks (e.g., hazard identification, dose response assessment, exposure assessment, and risk characterization) to real-world toxicological scenarios.
General competence
- Communicate scientific knowledge clearly and accurately, both orally and in writing, using appropriate terminology in physiology, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and toxicology.
- Read, interpret, and critically evaluate scientific, and communicate key concepts and findings in a structured, academically appropriate manner.
Prerequisites
Anbefalte forkunnskaper
MBI-2005 General pharmacology and toxicology, MBI-2015 Human physiology
Credit reduction
If you pass the examination in this course, you will get an reduction in credits (as stated below), if you previously have passed the following courses:
- MBI-3015 Human pharmacology and toxicology 5 ects
- MBI-3016 Human physiology 5 ects
Teaching methods
Language of instruction and examination
EnglishSchedule
The schedules are normally finalized and published well in advance of the start of the semester, often a few weeks beforehand. This gives students the opportunity to organize their studies and prepare for upcoming activities.
It is recommended to check the schedule regularly, as changes may occur.
Information to incoming exchange students
The course can be taken as a singular course by students with a Bachelor´s degree in Biomedicine or similar (180 ECTS). Application code (Nordic applicants): 9371
Recommended prerequisites: Basic knowledge at University Bachelor level in physiology, biochemistry, cell biology, pharmacology and toxicology.
The minimum average grade requirement is:
C - for bachelor's degree or equivalent issued in Europe, Canada, USA, Australia and New Zealand
B - for bachelor's degree or equivalent issued in all other countries
Examination
| School exam | Duration: 4 Hours |
Grade: A–E, fail F |
To take an examination, the student must have passed the following coursework requirements
| Participation at module-seminars – minimum 80% participation to be approved. | Grade: Approved – not approved |
Everything you need to know about before, during, and after the exam; registration, absence, appeals, and diplomas: UiT Exams homepage
