This module seeks to develop the area of toxicology as a subject area within forensic science. It is intended that this module will provide a thorough understanding of toxic principles and practice, and seeks to build on prior knowledge of pharmacology and deepen the students' knowledge and understanding in this new area. Here, particular emphasis will be placed on key toxic responses, risk assessment and underlying principles of forensic toxicology, including sampling, sample preservation and labeling, and preparation, along with systemic toxicology, with associated case studies. Course content will be augmented by input from external agencies (Forensic Science Ireland & Medical Bureau of Road Safety).
General Principles of Toxicology
History; Dose and Response, Toxicity rating, Outcomes of injury.
Toxicity outcomes
Spectrum of adverse effects; Outcomes of chemical injury (cell Swelling, Steatosis, Necrosis, Apoptosis, Autophagy, Mutagenesis, inflammation etc.).
ADME of Toxins
Absorption, Distribution, Biotransformation and Elimination of toxins
Non-Organ Directed Toxicity
Chemical injury, Genetic, Developmental, Environmental etc.
Systemic Target Organ Toxicology
Blood, Liver, Immune, Respiratory, Kidney, CNS, Ocular, Vascular & Heart, Skin, Reproductive & Endocrine.
Forensic Toxicology of Poisons
Definitions, Classification, Evidence, Symptoms, Detection, Specific examples & cases studies (Opium and Morphine, Mercury, cocaine, alcohol, paracetamol, carbon tetrachloride, gaseous poisons, plant fungi & Toxic foods, etc.).
Toxicology Practice
Regulatory & Toxicity testing, Product labeling, Management of acute poisoning, Occupational toxicology, Risk assessment, Perception of risk.
Analytical Forensic Toxicology
Sample types, Methodologies used to retrieve samples, Sample storage and identification, Sample preparation prior to analysis, Analytical method Selection, Purification of toxins from samples, Maintenance of a chain of custody record.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 30 |
| Formal Examination | 70 |