- Docente: Elena Fabbri
- Credits: 6
- SSD: BIO/09
- Language: English
- Teaching Mode: Traditional lectures
- Campus: Bologna
- Corso: First cycle degree programme (L) in Biology of Human and Environmental Health (cod. 5909)
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from Sep 23, 2024 to Jan 13, 2025
Learning outcomes
Environmental physiology of animals (including humans) explores how cells and physiological systems allow organisms to live in different environments or respond to environmental challenges. The students will learn physiological mechanisms (at the systemic, cellular and molecular levels) through which animals cope or adapt to changes in temperature, pH, osmolarity, and water scarcity in the surrounding environment. This course will also address the physiological responses developed by animals after exposure to environmental stressors, their potential application for biomonitoring, as well as the effects on human health.
Course contents
-Temperature: biochemical and physiological effects on animals; regulation of thermal biology; molecular basis of thermal adaptation; heatwaves and effects on human health
- Drought and salinity: animal water balance and osmoregulation; adaptation in terrestrial and aquatic environments; molecular basis of osmotic adaptation; clean water scarcity and effects on human health
-Environmental stressors and human health
-Endocrine disruptors, including elements of endocrinology (hormone mechanisms of action. Endocrine control of energetic metabolism; Thyroid and Reproductive hormonal axis)
-Biomarkers and their application in health and environmental biomonitoring
(((Absorption, distribution, metabolism, accumulation, and excretion of chemical pollutants, metabolism and oxidative stress are considered done in previous courses)))
(((Absorption, distribution, metabolism, accumulation, and excretion of chemical pollutants, metabolism and oxidative stress are considered done in previous courses))))
Readings/Bibliography
Pertinent book chapters, review articles
Teaching methods
Frontal lessons with power point slides
Assessment methods
The final examination wants to evaluate that students met the teaching objectives: physiological mechanisms through which animals adapt to climate changes and the strategies for coping with environmental changes.
The exam (written) deals with specific questions on different topics: students will be asked to answer in a pertinent and synthetic manner, eventually using sketches and drawings.
Teaching tools
Power point slides
Office hours
See the website of Elena Fabbri