Advancements in toxicology and risk assessment are shaping a new era of scientific methodologies that reduce reliance on traditional animal testing while improving our understanding of toxic effects on human health and ecosystems. This advanced course brings together cutting-edge scientific approaches and their real-world applications in environmental and human health risk assessment.

This course features a series of expert-led lectures, presenting the latest research and innovations in in vitro, in silico, and alternative toxicological testing methodologies. The content is designed to bridge the gap between experimental research and regulatory frameworks, equipping participants with the knowledge necessary to integrate these methodologies into their work in academia, industry, and policymaking.

By exploring modern bioanalytical tools, computational modeling, and multi-omics approaches, participants will gain insights into how these techniques contribute to safer chemical risk assessment, sustainable environmental policies, and public health protection. The course is particularly relevant for scientists, toxicologists, regulatory experts, and students seeking a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the evolving landscape of toxicology.

By completing this course, participants will be well-equipped to understand and apply modern toxicological approaches in research, education, and professional practice, contributing to a safer and more sustainable future.

LEARNING MATERIAL

Understanding Radioactivity and Its Effects on Humans

Radioactivity is all around us, but how much do we really understand about its risks, benefits, and impact on our daily lives? In this lecture, we take a deep dive into the science of radioactivity, from its discovery by Marie and Pierre Curie to its modern applications in medicine, energy, and industry. We explore nuclear waste storage and disposal, the dangers of radiation exposure, and lessons learned from major nuclear accidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima. You’ll learn about different types of radiation, how shielding works, and why even bananas are radioactive! We also discuss the global nuclear waste problem, safety measures in nuclear power plants, and the real risks versus common misconceptions about radiation. Whether you’re curious about how radiation affects human health, how nuclear energy works, or how waste is managed, this talk provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of one of the most powerful forces in science. Watch now to understand how radioactivity shapes our world and why proper handling of nuclear materials is crucial for future sustainability.

How Scientists Measure Pollution’s Impact on Health & Ecosystems

Understanding study design in toxicology is crucial for assessing environmental exposure, DNA damage, and disease risk. In this lecture, Stefano Bonassi from SRA breaks down key methodologies used in environmental research, epidemiology, and biomarker analysis. From case-control studies to cohort studies, he explores how researchers design experiments to measure the impact of pollutants, chemicals, and other stressors on human and ecosystem health. Learn how capture-recapture techniques help estimate wildlife populations, why cross-sectional vs. longitudinal studies matter, and how biomarkers are used to detect early signs of exposure-related diseases. Whether you’re working in ecotoxicology, occupational health, or environmental risk assessment, this session provides essential insights into the science behind exposure and disease prediction. Watch now to understand how data collection, statistical analysis, and study methodology shape modern toxicology research!

Can AI and Machine Learning Predict Environmental Risks?

How can we assess the toxicity of chemicals without relying on extensive animal testing? In this lecture, we dive into the world of computational toxicology, where machine learning, AI, and big data are transforming the way we predict chemical risks in the environment. With over 100 million chemicals registered in global databases, but only a fraction having complete toxicity data, researchers are using advanced quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) models to bridge the gap. This talk explores how chemical structures, biological markers, and computational algorithms help assess environmental and human health risks, focusing on real-world applications like monitoring pollution in the Sava River and identifying hazardous compounds in fish and sediment. Learn how predictive modeling can enhance risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and environmental safety, while aligning with the 3Rs principle (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) of animal testing. Can AI truly predict the dangers of chemicals before they cause harm? Watch to find out!

Why 3D Cell Models Improve Chemical Safety Assessments

In this insightful lecture, we dive into the future of toxicology with 3D hepatic cell models, a groundbreaking alternative to traditional animal testing in genetic toxicology. As regulatory frameworks like REACH require extensive safety testing for chemicals, researchers are exploring more ethical, efficient, and reliable methods. This talk breaks down how 3D liver cell models improve chemical safety assessments, offering more accurate metabolic activity compared to conventional 2D cell cultures. We explore their role in genotoxicity testing, their ability to mimic human liver function, and how they can bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo research. With the potential to reduce misleading results, minimize unnecessary animal testing, and advance personalized medicine, these models represent a significant shift in toxicological research. Learn how innovations like organs-on-chips, bioreactors, and dynamic culture systems are shaping the future of human-relevant chemical safety testing. If you’re interested in biotechnology, toxicology, and regulatory science, this lecture is a must-watch!

The Future of Chemical Risk: What’s Changing

Understanding chemical risk assessment is crucial for both human health and environmental safety. In this insightful talk, we explore the evolving landscape of risk assessment, from traditional methodologies to modern alternatives aimed at reducing reliance on animal testing. Roger, a genetic toxicologist at the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, delves into the fundamental differences between human and ecological risk assessment, highlighting why regulatory bodies take a conservative approach when evaluating chemical hazards. Learn about the key concepts of hazard identification, dose-response assessment, exposure analysis, and the role of new approach methodologies (NAMs) in improving chemical safety evaluations. Discover why traditional models often fall short, how innovative in vitro and computational models are shaping the future, and why integrating adverse outcome pathways (AOPs) could lead to better regulatory decisions. Whether you’re a toxicology student, a researcher, or simply curious about how chemicals impact our world, this session provides valuable insights into modern toxicology and its role in public health. Stay informed about the latest developments in risk assessment and the transition toward more ethical and data-driven approaches to chemical safety.

How Fish Consumption Affects Toxic Metal Exposure in Humans

Is your seafood as healthy as you think? This video explores the balance between essential nutrients and toxic metals in fish, focusing on mercury and selenium levels in commonly consumed species. Learn how metal exposure varies based on fish type, diet, and environmental contamination, and how excessive consumption of certain fish can lead to toxic metal accumulation. We also dive into biomonitoring studies, analyzing the effects of mercury on pregnant women, infants, and vulnerable populations. Discover how factors like fish size, trophic level, and biomagnification impact metal concentrations and why continuous food safety monitoring is crucial. If you’re interested in toxicology, nutrition, and environmental health, this deep dive into the risks and benefits of fish consumption will help you make informed dietary choices while ensuring optimal health and safety.

How Scientists Use Micronuclei to Study Genetic Mutations

Micronuclei may be small, but they hold critical clues about DNA damage, genetic mutations, and even cancer risk. In this lecture, Professor Helga Stoer from VIBR University dives deep into the world of micronucleus testing, explaining how these tiny structures form, what they reveal about genotoxicity, and their role in mutagenicity studies. Learn how scientists use in vivo and in vitro micronucleus assays to assess chemical safety, environmental pollution, and disease risks. Discover the latest research on micronucleus fate, its connection to carcinogenesis, and how it plays a role in biomonitoring and ecotoxicology. Whether you’re studying toxicology, environmental science, or regulatory testing, this session provides an in-depth look at one of the most versatile tools in genetic damage assessment. Join us as we explore the cutting-edge science behind micronuclei and their impact on human health and ecosystems.

How Micronuclei Help Assess Environmental and Genetic Risks

Micronuclei are powerful biomarkers that help scientists assess DNA damage, genetic instability, and environmental exposure. In this lecture, we explore how micronuclei are used in toxicology, epidemiology, and environmental health to measure early biological effects of pollutants, radiation, and other stressors. We discuss their role as indicators of genomic instability, their connection to disease risks like cancer and cardiovascular disorders, and their application in both human and animal studies. Learn how micronuclei testing provides insights into exposure levels, helps predict long-term health outcomes, and contributes to cutting-edge research on environmental and occupational health. This lecture also covers case studies, including the impact of urban air pollution and radiation exposure from nuclear incidents, as well as key methodologies for measuring micronuclei in different tissues. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or professional in toxicology and environmental science, this session offers valuable insights into the crucial role of micronuclei in modern scientific research.

How Bacterial Risk Assessment Shapes Toxicology Today

In this engaging video, we explore the critical topic of bacterial risk assessment and its pivotal role in modern toxicology. Join our expert as they discuss the importance of understanding bacterial risks in both human health and ecosystems. Gain insights into how safety regulations are designed to mitigate these risks and the scientific tools used to evaluate them. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or professional in toxicology, this lesson sheds light on the key principles and applications of bacterial risk assessment, making it an essential resource for anyone looking to modernize their knowledge. Learn how regulations and assessments work hand-in-hand to safeguard the environment and public health while addressing the challenges posed by bacteria. Equip yourself with the tools and expertise to stay at the forefront of toxicology advancements.

The Science Behind Air Quality and Why It Matters

Air pollution is one of the biggest environmental and health challenges we face today. In this lecture from the ToxLearn Summer School in Zagreb, we explore the science behind air pollution, its sources, and its effects on human health and ecosystems. From particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5) and volatile organic compounds to harmful gases like nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and ozone, we break down how these pollutants impact our respiratory system, contribute to diseases, and affect air quality worldwide. Learn about the differences between primary and secondary pollutants, the role of photochemical smog, and how exposure to air toxins can lead to severe health risks. We also discuss how air pollution is monitored, measured, and regulated using advanced scientific methods, from passive sampling and remote sensors to bioindicators. If you’re curious about how air quality affects your daily life and what can be done to mitigate pollution, this video is a must-watch. Whether you’re studying toxicology, environmental science, or just concerned about the air you breathe, this session will provide valuable insights. Stay informed and help raise awareness about the importance of clean air and sustainable solutions!

The Science of Air Pollution Monitoring and Regulation

Air pollution is one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, affecting both human health and ecosystems. In this lecture from the ToxLearn Summer School in Zagreb, we explore the science behind air quality monitoring, the limitations of current regulations, and how pollutants impact long-term health. Learn how air quality standards are set, why they often differ from WHO recommendations, and the real-world challenges in enforcing them. We also dive into the history of air pollution control, from early regulations to modern-day monitoring techniques, and examine case studies of how air quality has changed over the years. With pollutants like PM2.5, NO₂, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons posing serious health risks, it’s crucial to understand how air pollution is measured, how it affects us, and what actions governments are taking. This video is essential for anyone studying environmental science, toxicology, or public health, as well as those interested in the latest advancements in air pollution research. Stay informed and discover what’s really in the air you breathe!

How BETEX Enters Your Body and What It Does Inside

BETEX compounds—Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, and Xylenes—are volatile organic chemicals found in everything from car exhaust to industrial solvents, fuel spills, and even consumer products. These hazardous substances are widely present in air, water, and soil, raising concerns about their impact on human health and ecosystems. In this lecture, we explore BETEX sources, environmental fate, and exposure pathways, focusing on inhalation, ingestion, and skin absorption. You’ll learn why benzene is classified as a human carcinogen, how these compounds affect the nervous system and bone marrow, and what regulations are in place to limit exposure. We also cover cutting-edge biomonitoring techniques, including urine and blood testing, using advanced gas chromatography methods to detect even trace amounts of BETEX in biological samples. Understanding these pollutants is crucial for environmental scientists, toxicologists, and health professionals, especially when assessing risks in occupational settings, industrial pollution sites, and drinking water safety. Whether you’re studying toxicology or working in environmental health, this session provides essential insights into detecting and mitigating BETEX exposure risks.

How Air Pollution Affects DNA Damage in Plants

How does air pollution impact DNA damage in plants? In this video, we explore an innovative biomonitoring study that uses plants to assess environmental pollution levels and their effects on genetic material. Learn how researchers applied the Comet Assay to measure DNA damage in leaves and how seasonal variations, leaf position, and growth stages influence pollution-related effects. Discover how this study correlates plant DNA damage with PM2.5 air pollution levels, including data collected during the COVID-19 lockdown, which led to temporary improvements in air quality. We also discuss the limitations of current monitoring methods and why more comprehensive air quality and pollutant data are needed for accurate risk assessment. Whether you’re interested in environmental toxicology, pollution monitoring, or genetic damage, this research highlights the potential of plants as bioindicators for assessing long-term pollution trends and its effects on ecosystems.

How Bioindicators Help Track Pollution and Ecosystem Health

Air pollution is an invisible threat, but nature has ways of revealing its presence. In this talk, we explore how biomonitoring using lichens and mosses provides crucial insights into air quality and pollution levels, particularly in Bosnia and Herzegovina. By analyzing these natural bioindicators, scientists can track the presence of heavy metals like cadmium, lead, and nickel, helping us assess environmental risks and the impact of human activities such as industrial emissions, traffic pollution, and domestic heating. This research highlights the importance of biological monitoring in environmental science, offering an effective and cost-efficient alternative to traditional air quality assessments. With air pollution levels in urban areas often exceeding safe limits, understanding how natural indicators can reveal hidden contaminants is more important than ever. Watch to learn how bioindicators contribute to environmental monitoring and how we can use this knowledge to move towards cleaner air and a healthier planet.

How Scientists Measure DNA Damage in Toxicology

In this video, we dive deep into genotoxicology and the science of DNA damage—a critical field in toxicology that helps us understand how chemicals and environmental factors impact human health. Learn how the Comet Assay, a powerful tool in DNA damage detection, can reveal hidden genetic mutations, single-strand and double-strand breaks, and oxidative stress. Our expert explains the mechanisms behind DNA repair, the dangers of genotoxic compounds, and how scientists assess risks in environmental and biomedical research. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or toxicology enthusiast, this lesson offers a clear and insightful breakdown of the techniques used to study genetic stability and potential cancer risks. Discover how laboratory assays and biomonitoring studies help detect DNA lesions, prevent mutations, and ensure public health safety. Don’t miss this essential guide to understanding DNA integrity and toxicological assessments!

How DNA Repair Protects Us From Disease and Aging

DNA repair is one of the most critical biological processes that protect our health, prevent mutations, and reduce the risk of diseases like cancer and aging-related conditions. In this lecture, Sabine Langie from M University explains the fascinating science behind DNA repair mechanisms, including base excision repair and nucleotide excision repair, and their role in cellular defense. She also introduces advanced biomonitoring techniques using the Comet assay, an innovative method to measure DNA damage and repair activity. Learn how environmental exposure, occupational hazards, and even diet—such as the impact of antioxidant-rich foods like kiwi—can influence DNA repair efficiency. Discover the latest advancements in environmental toxicology and how scientists assess the effects of pollutants, chemicals, and lifestyle factors on our genetic stability. Whether you’re a researcher, student, or simply curious about human biology, this deep dive into DNA repair and biomonitoring will expand your understanding of how our bodies fight cellular damage. Stay until the end for key insights on using biomonitoring in environmental studies and how DNA repair is applied to assess real-world toxicological risks.

How Scientists Detect Water Pollution Using Bioindicators

How can we measure the hidden impact of pollution on aquatic life? In this lecture, Stoimir Kolev explores the use of the Comet Assay in aquatic organisms, a powerful tool in ecogenotoxicology that helps detect DNA damage caused by environmental pollutants. By studying freshwater mussels, fish, and other bioindicators, scientists can assess the effects of contaminants in rivers and lakes. This talk breaks down passive and active biomonitoring approaches, explaining how researchers collect specimens, analyze tissue samples, and interpret the results to understand the real impact of pollution on ecosystems. From fieldwork challenges to laboratory analysis, this session provides a step-by-step guide on how scientists track genotoxicity in aquatic environments. Learn how wastewater, industrial runoff, and untreated sewage affect DNA integrity in marine and freshwater species, and why this research is crucial for environmental protection. If you’re interested in toxicology, biomonitoring, or environmental DNA damage, this lecture is a must-watch!

Can DNA Damage Predict Future Disease Risk?

How does human biomonitoring help us understand the hidden risks in our environment? In this talk, we explore the power of DNA damage analysis and cryopreserved blood samples to assess long-term health risks, including cancer. Our daily exposure to toxins from air, food, and everyday products can cause cellular damage, but how do we measure it? The comet assay is a widely used technique to evaluate DNA integrity, revealing potential early indicators of disease. We also discuss the challenges of working with cryopreserved biological samples, their stability over time, and their relevance in large-scale epidemiological studies like the EPIC cohort. Can frozen blood samples still provide accurate insights decades later? What are the best methods for ensuring reliable DNA damage detection in biobanks? This video dives deep into the intersection of toxicology, environmental health, and cutting-edge biomonitoring techniques. Whether you’re a researcher, student, or just curious about how science can predict future health outcomes, this lesson will provide valuable insights into the evolving world of human biomonitoring.

Understanding Flow Cytometry for Toxicology and Data Analysis

In this video, we dive into the fascinating world of flow cytometry, an essential tool in modern toxicology for analyzing and understanding the toxic effects of environmental chemicals on human and ecosystem health. Learn about the fundamental principles of flow cytometry, including its key components—fluidics, optics, and electronics—and discover how these elements work together to provide accurate data. We’ll also explore practical applications of flow cytometry in genome toxicity research, equipping you with the knowledge to interpret complex data and improve your toxicology skills. Whether you’re a student eager to expand your expertise or a professional looking to modernize your approaches, this video delivers the insights you need in a clear, accessible way. Join us to better understand how cutting-edge tools like flow cytometry are transforming the field of toxicology and empowering researchers to tackle critical environmental challenges.

How Flow Cytometry Helps Us Study Plant Cell Cycles

How do plants adapt to environmental stress at the cellular level? In this lecture, Sophie from the University of Hasselt explores how flow cytometry is used to analyze the cell cycle in plants, with a special focus on endoreplication, a unique process where plant cells increase their DNA content without dividing. Understanding this mechanism helps scientists uncover how plants develop, grow, and respond to stress, particularly when exposed to toxic heavy metals like cadmium. Using Arabidopsis thaliana as a model organism, this talk explains how flow cytometry enables researchers to measure DNA content, track nuclear size, and assess plant resilience. Learn how stress factors like pollution impact plant cell division and DNA replication, and why these insights are crucial for both plant biology and environmental monitoring. Watch to discover how cutting-edge research is improving our understanding of plant growth and stress adaptation!

How Metals Travel Through Soil, Water, and Living Organisms

Metals and metalloids are naturally occurring elements, but their presence in the environment can have significant consequences for ecosystems and human health. In this lecture, we explore how metals accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms, examining their impact through real-world studies on terrestrial wildlife, including brown bears, vultures, and game animals. Learn how toxic metals such as mercury, cadmium, and lead move through food chains, their effects on apex predators, and how bioaccumulation can influence ecological and human health risk assessments. We also discuss key methods used in ecotoxicology to monitor contamination, including biomonitoring, oxidative stress markers, and metal concentration analysis in different tissues. If you’re interested in environmental toxicology, pollution science, or wildlife conservation, this lecture offers valuable insights into the unseen risks of metal exposure in nature.

How to Investigate the Oxidative Balance in Plants?

How do plants manage oxidative balance to survive environmental stress? In this video, we explore the intricate relationship between prooxidants and antioxidants and how plants use reactive oxygen species (ROS) to adapt to changing conditions. Learn about the biomarkers of oxidative stress, the role of free radicals, and how antioxidants help restore cellular balance. Discover how metabolic pathways, photosynthesis, and external stressors contribute to ROS production and how plants regulate these processes to maintain cellular health and defense mechanisms. We also examine different scientific techniques used to measure oxidative stress in plants, from fluorescent probes to spin trap technology, providing insights into real-world plant stress responses. Whether you’re interested in plant biology, toxicology, or environmental adaptation, this lesson dives deep into the biochemical processes that allow plants to thrive under stress.

How Genetically Encoded Biosensors Can Help Us Understand Plant Stress Responses

Understanding how plants respond to stress is crucial for agriculture, environmental science, and toxicology. In this video, Sophie Hendrix from Hasselt University dives into the fascinating world of genetically encoded biosensors—a cutting-edge technology that allows researchers to monitor plant stress responses in real time. Unlike traditional methods, these biosensors provide dynamic, non-invasive tracking of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and redox changes inside living plant cells. Sophie explains how biosensors are integrated into plants using Agrobacterium-mediated transformation, how they measure hydrogen peroxide, glutathione redox potential, and cellular oxidative stress, and why they are game-changers in studying heat stress, cadmium toxicity, and environmental pollution effects on plants. Whether you’re a plant biologist, toxicologist, or simply curious about advanced plant research techniques, this deep dive into fluorescent biosensor technology will expand your understanding of how plants adapt to stress at the molecular level. Learn about confocal microscopy vs. plate reader analysis, discover how Arabidopsis plants are genetically engineered for biosensor studies, and see how researchers use these tools to explore stress resilience in crops and ecosystems.