Pharmacology BIOR98

Overview

Learn about mechanisms of actions for drugs and how these may be used to prevent or alleviate disorders. The course gives you a solid foundation for further studies in pharmacology, or a career in e.g. regulatory affairs or the pharmaceutical industry.

The course starts with an introduction to general principles and drug actions, including the concepts of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Factors that influence absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) are linked to the general principles. The autonomic nervous system, with receptors and mediators therein, serve as example of effects and side effects when pharmacologically modulated. This general introduction serves as a foundation for the following thematic weeks where focus is on disorders affecting major organ systems such as autoimmunity, inflammation, metabolic or cardiovascular disorders.

A central part of the course is model systems used in drug discovery, development and testing. Here, both in vitro (cell culture) and in vivo (animal models) will be dealt with in both theory and practice. An introduction to legislation regarding animal experiments is followed by practical training in handling, sampling and injection techniques as well as surgical procedures. Emphasis is put on understanding possibilities and limitations with in vitro and in vivo models in drug discovery and development.

Teaching and learning

The course starts with the theoretical foundations: during each week-long module you work in groups with questions and topics linked to the theory. The work is supported by lectures, exercises, and demonstrations. Discussing the theory facilitates the learning process and develops your skills in constructive group work. Individual readiness assurance tests are given to help align your theoretical knowledge with the intended goals. Examination is done both continuously during the course and with a written exam, approximately halfway through the course.

The latter part of the course is aimed at application. An individual, written project allows you to broaden and deepen your knowledge in pharmacology or a closely related topic. During the project you will also develop your feedback skills before the task is accounted for orally and with a feedback process. Experimental model systems, legal and ethical questions regarding the choice of system are discussed during seminar(s) and is finalised with a workshop. Together with peers, you will design and present posters illustrating how such systems are used in drug discovery and development within a specific topic.

This is a full-time course and to pass, active participation in exercises, lab work, demonstrations, seminars and presentations is required. Also, the written exam and all written assignments must be conducted and passed.