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Neurotoxicology

Utrecht University
5 days
1.5 ECTS
Tuition fees

Aim of the course

Neurotoxicity refers to ‘any form of substance-induced dysfunction of the nervous system’. This broad definition already implies that neurotoxicity can be studied from many different perspectives, including neurobehavior, neurodevelopment, neurophysiology, neuropathology and neurochemistry. A large number of compounds is able to induce neurotoxicity, in particular when exposure occurs during early brain development. However, exposure to neurotoxicants can also occur later in life, e.g., at the work place or via food. The aim of this course is to familiarise participants with the consequences of neurotoxicity, mechanisms of neurotoxicity, and neurotoxicity testing methods and models.

The first 2 days of this course (Thu-Fri) consist of E-lectures and webinars by internationally recognized experts in the field of neurotoxicology. This part of the course is followed from your home location. The other 3 days of the course (Mo-Wed) include the exam and a case study and require your physical attendance at the course location.

The course consists of lectures, webinars and active classes during which examples of various categories neurotoxicants and their mechanisms and effects are discussed.
Topics include:

  • basics of neurotoxicology
  • cellular and molecular mechanisms of toxicology
  • neurobehavioral toxicology
  • developmental neurotoxicology
  • neuropathology
  • human health effects of specific neurotoxicants (metals, pesticides, solvents, drugs)
  • regulatory neurotoxicity testing
  • alternative model systems for neurotoxicity testing
  • contribution of neurotoxicants to complex neurodevelopmental disorders and diseases

On successful completion of the course, participants should:

  • know the general principles of neurotoxicology
  • know the factors that influence the vulnerability of the nervous system to toxicants
  • know the mode of action of major (classes of) neurotoxicants
  • know the factors responsible for selective neurotoxic effects and how these may contribute to (human) neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders
  • know the state of the art of neurotoxicity testing, including alternative and innovative methods
  • be acquainted with regulatory aspects of neurotoxicity testing
  • be able to assess the neurotoxic hazard and risk of developmental, acute, chronic or occupational exposure to specific neurotoxicants.

Coordination: Dr. R.H.S. Westerink

Lecturers
Dr. R. Westerink (Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands; coordinator)
Dr. V. de Leeuw (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM))
Dr. A. Tukker1 (School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, Lafayette, IN, USA)
Dr. A. Bal-Price1 (European Commission Joint Research Centre, Ispra, Italy)
Dr. H. Hogberg2 (John Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA)
Prof.dr. M. Leist2 (Konstanz University, Konstanz, Germany)
Dr. F. Liu2 (FDA, Silver Spring, USA)
Prof.dr. P. Lein2 (UC Davis, Sacramento, USA)
Dr. C. van Thriel2 (Leibniz Research Centre, Dortmund, Germany)
Dr J. Cannon2 (Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA)
Dr. D. Rohlman2 (University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA)
Prof.dr. A. Kraneveld2 (Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands)
Dr. M. Sobolewski2 (University of Rochester, Rochester, USA)
Dr. T. Shafer2 (EPA, Research Triangle Park, USA)

1 Webinar 2  E-lecture

Examination
The final grade of this course will be based on the result of a written exam and on the result of a case study.

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.

Occupational Toxicology
New Approach Methodologies for Toxicology