Aim of the course: The presentation of the main experimental techniques and methodologies applied for the development of new drugs. Also, the principles followed in the preclinical and clinical trials of drugs are presented.

Course Content: This subject includes various experimental models used for the in vivo and in vitro studies ​​of the preclinical screening of a new drug. It also presents the different animals species used in several experimental approaches of pharmacological and toxicological studies and the conditions required for their optimal development and preservation. The biochemical, molecular and other biological controls of the effectiveness and potential toxicity of a new drug are presented. Several behavioral experimental settings for testing the possible central action of a new drug are included, along with the basic principles and processes of the biotechnological synthesis and production of new drugs and diagnostics. Information on the basic principles of clinical trials and gene therapy is also provided.

Teaching and assessment of students: The course includes lectures with power point presentations and visits to the Animal House of the University of Ioannina in groups of five persons. During these visits students are trained in experimental animal physiology and handling. Visits in major pharmaceutical companies are organized in the framework of this course. The assessment of students is based on the power point presentation of a bibliographic search on new pharmaceutical approaches to diseases and on their knowledge on the "Development of New Drugs."

Hours of training per student: 26

From the 5th Semester

ECTS: 2