Diagnostic methodology of clinical biochemistry and molecular biology

Module BIOCHIMICA E CHIMICA DELL'INQUINAMENTO, TECNICHE DI ANALISI CHIMICO CLINICHE E CONTROLLO DI QUALITA'

1 - Knowledge and understanding-The student must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the processes governing the action, transformation, and transport of the most common environmental pollutants. In addition, the student should acquire the foundational knowledge required to identify the chemical and physical components of health risks associated with environmental exposure. Knowledge of the different types of samples and the corresponding sampling procedures is also required.

2 - Applying knowledge and understanding-The student must be able to apply and integrate theoretical knowledge to evaluate results obtained using the principal direct and indirect analytical techniques employed to investigate interactions between xenobiotics and the human body, as well as to assess dose–effect and dose–response relationships. The student must also be able to use quality-control tools to maintain high standards of quality and safety, monitor the precision and accuracy of analytical methods, ensure the reliability of results, and implement corrective actions when necessary to improve quality.

3 - Making judgements-The student must demonstrate the ability to independently apply, evaluate, and interpret results obtained from different laboratory analyses, developing critical thinking skills and the ability to reflect upon, discuss, and deepen the interpretation of laboratory test data. The student must also be able to interpret biological, biochemical, structural, and functional parameters relevant to the identification of indicators of alterations caused by environmental exposure to pollutants.

4 - Communication skills-The student must be able to communicate clearly and effectively, using appropriate scientific and technical terminology in the field of laboratory analyses and adapting communication to different professional contexts.

5 - Learning skills-The student must demonstrate the ability to pursue lifelong learning independently for the acquisition of technical information and the continuous updating of knowledge. Furthermore, the student must be able to autonomously acquire and critically elaborate disciplinary content and develop skills for continuous professional updating in response to advances in laboratory technologies.

Lectures and laboratory practical sessions. In addition, students will be required to carry out activities following the laboratory sessions, either individually or in groups. Interactive teaching methods are envisaged through participation in working groups and active quizzes, using web-based platforms and open-source software. To ensure equal opportunities and in compliance with current laws, interested students may request a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and/or dispensatory measures based on educational objectives and specific needs. Students can also contact the CInAP (Centro per l’integrazione Attiva e Partecipata-Servizi per le Disabilità e/o i DSA) referring teacher within the department (https://www.cinap.unict.it/content/referenti). Should the course be delivered in blended or distance-learning mode, any necessary modifications may be introduced with respect to the arrangements described above in order to ensure compliance with the programme outlined in the syllabus.

Achievement of the learning outcomes established by the prerequisite courses (knowledge of the fundamental concepts of Biology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry).

1. Definition of Environment. Biogeochemical cycles (carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, and sulfur cycles).

2. Environmental and health consequences of pollution. Primary and secondary pollutants.

3. Toxic heavy metals. Chemical pollutants: organic and inorganic compounds, including pesticides and fertilizers, PCBs, PAHs, and PFAS.

4. Analytical and statistical concepts in data analysis. Separation and measurement techniques in clinical chemistry.

5.Clinical chemistry analytical techniques and immunochemical methods.

6.The Quality System. Certification and accreditation. Regulations and guidelines. Westgard rules, multirule quality control procedures, and control charts: the Levey–Jennings chart.

1) Chimica ambientale. Stanley E. Manahan. Piccin.

2) Le analisi personalizzate nella medicina di laboratorio. L. Spandrio, B. Milanesi. Piccin.

Biogeochemical Cycles (Carbon, Oxygen, Phosphorus, Nitrogen, and Sulfur)

Types of Pollutants

Quality Control