Applied Toxicology in Biotechnology

4 Credits.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the principles and applications of toxicology as they relate to food, biotechnology, and bioproducts. Students will examine the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of toxic agents, natural and synthetic toxins, food contaminants, and processing byproducts. Special emphasis will be placed on emerging biotechnologies, such as genetically modified organisms (GMOs), novel proteins, bioengineered foods, and nutraceuticals.The course integrates toxicological science with food safety and regulatory frameworks, highlighting global standards (FDA, EFSA, Codex Alimentarius) and risk assessment methodologies used in evaluating food and biotech products. Topics will also cover toxicokinetics, dose-response relationships, biomarkers of exposure, carcinogenicity, and endocrine disruption, with case studies linking toxicological data to regulatory decision-making.By the end of the course, students will gain a strong foundation to critically evaluate toxicological risks in food and biotechnology, understand regulatory approval pathways, and apply safety principles in research, product development, and industry practice.