Toxicology is the the scientific study of the adverse effects of chemical substances on the living organism (Merriam-Webster). In Slide 1, you identified the chemical structure of a toxin molecule. In Slide 2, you will further define the biochemical properties of the molecule. To begin, click on the link in Slide 1 and return to the PubChem database entry for your toxin molecule.
Instructions for Slide 2:
- Add Slide 2 to your Google Slides deck and title it “Toxicology”
- On Slide 2, answer the following:
- How does the toxin interact with the human body?
- Explain effects on the body as a whole, on specific organs, and at the cellular level.
- Does the toxin act directly on cells, and if so, how?
- Is the toxin metabolized by the kidneys or liver, and if so, how?
- Are there treatments available for people who are exposed to the toxin?
- If yes, how do treatments to the toxin work? Explain the mechanism of action for each treatment:
- Does the treatment act against the toxin directly?
- Does the treatment act on the body to protect against the toxin?
- Does the treatment act on a metabolite produced after the toxin is metabolized by the liver or kidneys?
- If no, look for evidence of failed treatments.
- If you can’t find any information at all regarding treatment, propose a treatment and explain your thinking.
- If yes, how do treatments to the toxin work? Explain the mechanism of action for each treatment:
- How does the toxin interact with the human body?
Need help? You have options:
- Click here and watch a video of Mr. Swart guiding you through the process of conducting the research to complete Slide 2. You will also be provided with an example of Slide 2.
- Attend office hours on Tuesday and/or Thursday
- Email Mr. Swart with specific and detailed questions.
When finished with Slide 2, return to Weeks 34-35 – How Much Is Too Much? and continue working.