PMY 455 introduces students to the basic principles and practices of toxicology. Toxicology is defined as the study of adverse effects of natural compounds or man-made chemicals on living organisms. Specific areas covered will include: the history of toxicology, general principles, chemical carcinogenesis, specific organ toxicology and ways to determine the risk to humans associated with toxic compounds (i.e., human risk assessment). This course uses innovative approaches to teaching and utilizing real life examples and historical information of mass poisonings from natural or environmental disasters. This course provides the foundation for understanding and assessing the risks and effects of exposure to chemicals in our environment.