Learning outcomes of the course unit
Aim of the course is to provide a panoramic view of the various aspect of the environmental mutagenesis and in particular of the environmental genotoxic risk at which human and animals are subjected. The course provides a detailed overview of methodologies for monitoring human populations and the environment itself (e.g., air, water, soil).
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Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of Genetics and Biochemistry.
Course contents summary
Molecular basis of DNA alterations
spontaneous alterations of and damages to DNA
chemical and physical mutagens
Molecular mechanisms involved in the control of genome integrity
metabolism of xenobiotics
DNA repair in prokaryotic and eukariotic organisms
Mutations in somatic and germ cells
Sources of genotoxic pollutants
natural and manmade mutagens and cancerogens in: environmental samples (air, soil, water, etc.)
Mutagenicity testing
biomarkers and bioindicators
methods and testing strategies: in vitro and in vivo mutagenicity tests.
Protocols for genotoxins assessment
environmental mixtures and biological samples
guidelines for mutagenicity testing and environmental risk assessment.
Recommended readings
Mutagenesi ambientale a cura di Lucia Migliore Ed. Zanichelli 2004, ISBN 8808-07719-5.
Tossicologia a cura di Greim H. e Deml E., Ed. Zanichelli 2000, ISBN 8808-09979-2.
