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Cellular Toxicology

Leiden University
1 week
1.5 ECTS
Tuition fees

Aim of the course

To provide understanding of cells as the primary target of organ toxicity, the molecular mechanisms involved in cellular toxicity, and the technological approaches available to identify and understand cytotoxicity. 

Content of the course 

The course is composed of lectures, demonstrations, literature discussions and a theoretical assignment. In a series of lectures the concepts of the biochemical and molecular aspects of cell toxicity are illustrated using liver and kidney as model target organs. Mechanisms of cell killing by necrosis and apoptosis will be discussed, but also other possible outcomes of toxic response, such as autophagy and senescence, and the complex signalling pathways that constitute a more detailed mechanistic view culminating in the AOP concepts. The use of state-of-the-art high-content live cell imaging, omics technologies and genetic-based approaches to understand mechanisms and to screen for adverse cellular responses will be demonstrated. Their application in a regulatory setting is finally discussed.  

Outcomes (competences, skills) 

On successful completion of the module, participants should: 

  • have a basic understanding on the pros on cons of in vitro cell systems in toxicology research 
  • understand the biochemical programs that underlie necrosis and apoptosis 
  • be able to pinpoint the most important cellular stress responses that occur during chemical exposure and translate injury into death or repair programs 
  • understand the use and application of state-of-the-art technology for in vitro cell toxicology research, in particular high-throughput microscopy, omics and functional genomics 
  • understand the status of implementation of NAMs based on the introduced technologies in regulatory practice, and the European research initiatives supporting their broader uptake 
  • be able to critically apply the above information in designing and/or critically evaluating in vitro models for predicting toxicity. 

Coordinator: Prof.dr. B. van de Water

Lecturers:
Prof.dr. B. van de Water
Dr. Giulia Callegaro
Dr. Sylvia Le Dévédec 
Dr. Martijn Moné 

Please note that the course can be cancelled up to one month before its starting date, when the number of applications is below the minimum required. For general inquiries please contact the PET Office.

Current Topics in Toxicology
General Toxicology