Course Description
The primary goal of this course is to provide an understanding and knowledge of the
mechanisms of toxicity including the role of metabolism in enhancing and reducing
toxicity and the effects of toxicants on major organ systems. Students are expected
to learn the following fundamental toxicological concepts: major classes of toxicants,
absorption, distribution and storage of toxicants, biotransformation and elimination
of toxicants, and effects of toxicants on major organ systems. Clinical and environmental
agents specific to human health and an introduction to risk assessment of exposure
to toxicants will also be discussed.
Meeting Place and Times
Participants log in to the course at a time of day that best fits their schedule.
It is necessary to connect at least 4 - 6 times per week and spend 8 - 10 hours per
week while the course is in session, either online or offline working on course related
assignments, to stay current and successfully complete this 3 credit graduate course.
Instructor(s)
Dr. Deborah E. Keil is an Associate Professor in the Department of Immunology and Cell Biology at Montana
State University. Her broad licensure in toxicology, chemistry, medical laboratories,
and infection control reflects experience grounded in scientific rigor, regulatory
fluency, and translational impact. She is a board-certified toxicologist (DABT) with
more than 25 years of experience in academic and public health research.
Her work explores the interface between environmental toxicants and immune function
(immunotoxicology). Dr. Keil has examined the toxicological, immunological, and biochemical
effects of approximately 25 environmental and pharmaceutical agents, including trichloroethylene,
PFAS compounds, ammonium perchlorate, Libby amphibole asbestos, heavy metals (arsenic,
cadmium, lead, mercury, uranium), DEET, JP-8 jet fuel, pyridostigmine bromide, and
has evaluated wastewater for selected pharmaceuticals such as opioids, cannabinoids,
and drugs of abuse entering nearby surface waters. She has served as principal investigator
or co-investigator on more than 30 federally and privately funded research projects
through the NIH, EPA, DOD, and state agencies, many leading to translational applications
in community health and environmental policy.
Dr. Keil’s research and teaching emphasize cross-disciplinary inquiry—bridging immunology,
toxicology, and environmental health. To complement her scientific and regulatory
expertise, she recently earned an MBA from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s
Executive MBA Program, expanding her capacity to integrate science, innovation, and
leadership in advancing public and environmental health.
Prerequisites
CHMY 141, and 143 College Chemistry I and II
BIOB 160 - General Biology
Target Audience
This course is appropriate for premed, health professional, and environmental science
majors.
Time Commitment:
8-10 hours per week. If you are unfamiliar with this field of study and/or method
of delivery, you may require more time. |
