Endocrine Disruptors

Theoretical classes will present content according to the course syllabus, utilizing multimedia presentations to enhance learning. Direct student participation will be encouraged through the description and discussion of pathophysiological mechanisms.
In the theoretical-practical component, priority will be given to video visualization to illustrate specific topics and the research, presentation, and discussion of scientific articles on recent advances related to the course content.

Continuous assessment will have a significant weight and include the following components:
• Active participation in theoretical-practical sessions and debates (25%)
o Monitoring student involvement in case study analysis, scientific article discussions, and experimental problem-solving.
o Evaluating students’ argumentation skills, critical thinking, and ability to integrate acquired knowledge.
• Individual critical review work and debates (75%)
The main evaluation component will be a small-group presentation developed throughout the course. Students will analyze, present, and debate innovative topics based on recent scientific research. The student must:
o Explain the scientific basis of the study and discuss hypotheses.
o Assess the appropriateness of the experimental design, including chosen models, inclusion/exclusion criteria, control strategies, and variable analysis.
o Discuss the obtained results.
o The work will be presented orally before a panel composed of course instructors and, whenever possible, invited specialists.
Approval Criteria
• The final grade will be determined based on the weighting of the above components.
• To pass, students must achieve a minimum score of 10 (on a scale of 0 to 20) in the weighted average of continuous assessment and the final project.
• Attendance and active participation are encouraged, with mandatory presence in at least 75% of the sessions.

• Understand the concept of endocrine disruptors, the cellular mechanisms of toxicology, and their pathophysiological implications on metabolism.
• Understand the impact of endocrine disruptors on biological processes related to digestion, absorption, and nutrient metabolism.
• Recognize the impact of endocrine disruptors on human reproduction, including the metabolic effects of sex hormones and transgenerational effects.
• Systematize the latest knowledge on the interactions of endocrine disruptors with major endocrine axes and neuroendocrine pathways involved in appetite control and energy expenditure.

1. Concept of Endocrine Disruptors and Toxicity Mechanisms
• Definition of endocrine disruptors and major environmental contaminants
• Cellular toxicity mechanisms: mitochondrial toxicity, inflammation, and stress pathways
2. Mechanisms of Gastrointestinal Inflammation Induced by Environmental Contaminants
• Gastrointestinal inflammation and microbiome alterations
• Enteroendocrine changes caused by environmental contaminants
3. Endocrine Disruptors in Reproduction
• Effects of endocrine disruptors on the gonadal endocrine axis and gametogenesis
• Fetal and transgenerational developmental alterations
• Changes in the metabolic effects of sex hormones
4. Endocrine Disruptors and Energy Balance
• Effects of endocrine disruptors on hypothalamic and peripheral pathways (adipose tissue, pancreas, liver, etc.) regulating appetite and energy expenditure

NAO