Learning objectives

Students will be acquainted with the main analytical methodologies used in clinical and forensic toxicological analysis. They will also learn the criteria for selecting the most appropriate operating conditions (biological matrix, analytical technique, sample pre-treatment procedure), particularly in relation to the legal and regulatory framework. Moreover, students will have the necessary knowledge to recognize the potential and limitations of the various technologies and their applicability to different toxicological context.

Prerequisites and basic notions

Knowledge of basic elements of chemistry and pharmacology (concepts of toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics).

Program

Introduction to clinical and forensic toxicology. Biological matrices used in toxicology: analytical and interpretative aspects. The chain of custody. Main methods of biological sample preparation in the pre-analytical phase. Immunometric techniques: general and practical aspects. Separative analytical techniques (capillary electrophoresis, liquid and gas chromatography): general and practical aspects. Mass spectrometry. Validation of analytical methods.
Substances of abuse of forensic interest: pharmaco-toxicological characteristics and analytical issues of forensic relevance. Toxicological investigations in the context of road traffic accidents, cases of acute intoxication and anti-doping controls.

Didactic methods

Frontal lessons

Learning assessment procedures

Unscheduled exam

Evaluation criteria

Active attendance at lessons

Criteria for the composition of the final grade

No final grade expected

Exam language

Italiano

Sustainable Development Goals - SDGs

This initiative contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN Agenda 2030. More information on sustainability