INFORMATION PACKAGE
UNIVERSITY OF ZAGREB
FACULTY OF PHARMACY AND BIOCHEMISTRY
for the 133th academic year
2014/2015
1
INFORMATION ON THE INSTITUTION AND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS ....................................3
GENERAL INFORMATION ...........................................................................................3
PROGRAMMES ........................................................................................................4
ADMISSION/REGISTRATION PROCEDURE ........................................................................4
Graduate programmes .........................................................................................4
PhD programme in "Pharmaceutical-Biochemical Sciences" .............................................5
PRINCIPAL RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE INSTITUTION ..................................................5
Transfer admission procedures – graduate programmes .................................................5
Transfer admission procedures – PhD programme .........................................................6
INSTITUTIONAL ECTS COORDINATOR ............................................................................6
TEACHING STAFF MEMBERS AND ASSOCIATES ..................................................................7
ACADEMIC CALENDAR ..............................................................................................9
GENERAL STUDENT INFORMATION .............................................................................. 10
STUDENT ASSOCIATIONS AND ACTIVITIES .................................................................... 100
FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT ..................................................................................... 10
INFORMATION ON DEGREE PROGRAMMES .................................................................... .111
MASTER OF PHARMACY PROGRAMME .......................................................................... 11
Qualification awarded ........................................................................................ 11
Educational and professional goals ........................................................................ 11
Student practice .............................................................................................. 12
Possible access to further education ...................................................................... 12
Degree Thesis and Final Exam .............................................................................. 12
Examinations and other learning controls ................................................................ 13
Exam before the examining board ......................................................................... 13
Coursework by study year…………………………………………………………………………………………15
MASTER OF MEDICAL BIOCHEMISTRY PROGRAMME........................................................... 20
Qualification awarded ........................................................................................ 20
Educational and professional goals ........................................................................ 20
Student practice ......................................................... ....................................21
Possible access to further education ...................................................................... 21
Final/Degree Thesis and Final/Degree Examination .................................................... 21
Examinations and other learning controls ................................................................ 22
Exam before the examining board ......................................................................... 22
Coursework by study year ................................................................................... 24
PHD PROGRAMME IN "PHARMACEUTICAL-BIOCHEMICAL SCIENCES" ........................................ 29
Qualification awarded ........................................................................................ 29
Educational and professional goals ........................................................................ 29
Possible access to further education ...................................................................... 29
Tuition and fees ............................................................................................... 29
PhD thesis ...................................................................................................... 29
POSTGRADUATE SPECIALIST STUDIES.........................................................................31
DESCRIPTION OF INDIVIDUAL COURSES – MASTER OF PHARMACY PROGRAMME......................... 312
DESCRIPTION OF INDIVIDUAL COURSES – MASTER OF MEDICAL BIOCHEMISTRY PROGRAMME.......... 72
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INFORMATION ON THE INSTITUTION
AND ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
FACULTY OF PHARMACY AND BIOCHEMISTRY
University of Zagreb
A. Kovačića 1, 10000 Zagreb
P.O. Box 156
Telephone: +385 1 48 56 201
Fax: +385 1 63 94 400
E-mail: dekanat@pharma.hr
URL: http://www.pharma.unizg.hr
Dean: Professor Jerka Dumić, PhD
Vice Dean for Education:
Associate Professor Lidija Bach-Rojecky, PhD
Vice Dean for Science: Professor Sanda
Vladimir-Knežević, PhD
Registrar: Marija Dora Katulić, LLB
GENERAL INFORMATION
The Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry is
the only faculty in Croatia dedicated entirely
to teaching and research in pharmacy and
medical biochemistry. Pharmacy studies were
started at the University of Zagreb in 1882.
The name Faculty of Pharmacy and
Biochemistry was adopted in 1963, and since
1986 the Faculty organizes two study
programmes, one in pharmacy and the other
in medical biochemistry.
Today, the Faculty offers graduate
programme in Pharmacy and in Medical
biochemistry, postgraduate (PhD) programme
in "Pharmaceutical-Biochemical Sciences" and
postgraduate specialist programmes. In
addition, The Faculty offers continuing
education for masters of pharmacy and
medical biochemistry.
The goals and objectives of Master of
Pharmacy programme are to educate
students for competent participation in the
design, development and delivery of
medications for safe and efficient therapy.
The five-year Master of Pharmacy programme
(10 semesters, 300 ECTS points) is divided in
three areas of academic focus: basic sciences,
biomedical sciences and pharmaceutical
sciences. Programme emphasizes problem
solving, critical thinking, and latest scientific
findings related to medicines and modern
medical treatments. Students learn to
practice as patient-oriented healthcare
professionals who will work as team with
other health care providers. In our modern
educational, research and practice settings,
student are prepared to excel in a variety of
pharmaceutical careers such as working in
community and hospital pharmacies,
pharmaceutical industry (research,
development, production, control and
marketing of drugs), Agency for Medicinal
Products and Medical Devices, educational
institutions for pharmacists, research
institutes, drug distribution enterprises
(wholesalers).
The goals and objectives of Master of Medical
Biochemistry programme are to train
students to examine human life in health and
disease from the chemical, biochemical and
molecular-biological aspects.
The five-year Master of Medical Biochemistry
programme (10 semesters, 300 ECTS points) is
divided in three areas of academic focus:
basic sciences, biomedical sciences and
medical biochemistry sciences. Programme
emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking,
and latest scientific findings related to the
molecular mechanisms underlying a multitude
of diseases as well as novel diagnostic
methods. The aim of this programme is to
educate professionals who will be able to help
physicians to diagnose the disease and follow
up the therapy by choosing appropriate
procedures and interpreting the obtained
results.
Medical biochemistry students study
molecular processes in human body and
molecular changes specific to disease, as well
as the essence, selection and quality control
of laboratory diagnostic procedures.
Interpretation of laboratory findings,
measuring instruments, insulation and
preparation of biological substances,
production of reagents and biochemicals are
also among their tasks. The extensive
practical programme and research projects
develop teamwork skills and introduce
students to the practical aspects of modern
medical biochemistry.
Masters of medical biochemistry get mainly
employed in the health care system (medicalbiochemistry laboratories in primary health
care, polyclinics, general and specialized
hospitals and clinical hospital centres).
Graduate programmes constitute the basis for
postgraduate extension of knowledge and
acquisition of special skills and competences.
Therefore PhD programme in
pharmaceutical-biochemical sciences has an
important role in the educational system of
the Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry.
The goal of PhD programme is to prepare
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independent, creative scientists to excel in
academia, the pharmaceutical industry and
other research institutions.
Applications are submitted to the Central
Admission Office according to the instructions
of the said office.
Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry is
situated on four locations, at a total area of
ca 8500 square meters, with research and
student laboratories, demonstration rooms, a
student pharmacy, computer classroom,
central library, several departmental libraries
and botanical garden of medicinal, poisonous,
aromatic and food plants.
Invitation for admission applications
PROGRAMMES
Graduate programmes:
 Master of Pharmacy
 Master of Medical Biochemistry
Postgraduate (PhD) programme in
"Pharmaceutical-Biochemical Sciences"
organized in 2 modules:
 Pharmaceutical Sciences
 Medical-Biochemical Sciences
Postgraduate specialist programmes: Drug
Development, Dermatopharmacy and
Cosmetology, Phitopharmacy with
Dietotherapy, Clinical Pharmacy, Medical
Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine,
Molecular Diagnostics, Pharmacogenomics: a
New Approach to Optimizing Therapy and
Toxicology (two modules).
The credit system applied in all programmes
complies with the European system (European
Credit Transfer System, ECTS).
ADMISSION/REGISTRATION PROCEDURE
Graduate studies
Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry enrols
in the first study years:
 Full-time students, financed by the
Ministry of Science, Education and
Sports
 Full-time students –participating in
tuition fees (linear participation)
 Full-time students –participating in
tuition fees (maximal participation)
 Full-time students – foreign nationals
paying full tuition fees.
General enrolment conditions
All persons who have completed four-year
secondary education and passed the state
baccalaureate exam.
Application
Invitation to apply for first year enrolment is
announced in the daily press and on the
University of Zagreb web pages. The
invitation comprises details of admission.
Admission criteria for graduate programmes
- Pharmacy and Medical Biochemistry
a) Based on secondary-school achievement
to 250 points
b) Based on state baccalaureate exams passed
- Croatian language
to 50 points
- Mathematics (higher)
to 200 points
- Foreign (or classical) language
to 50 points
- Chemistry
to 200 points
- Biology*
to 200 points
*Not a condition for admission, but brings
points if passed at the state baccalaureate.
c) Based on checking special skills
 If applicants did not attend and pass a
two-year course of the Latin language
during secondary education, they
must do it before enrolment into the
2nd study year
d) Student’s additional achievements
 one of the first three places won at
state competitions in the Republic of
Croatia or international competitions
in Chemistry or Biology or
Mathematics (one competition 30
points, two or more competitions 50
points) maximum 50 points
Postgraduate doctoral studies
“Pharmaceutical-Biochemical Sciences“
General conditions
Enrolment requirements for students regularly
enrolling in the first year:
 University degree (Faculty of
Pharmacy and Biochemistry)
 Graduate studies achievement (grade
point average 4.0, or references from
two teachers)
 English language competence and
computer literacy
Enrolment requirements for students enrolling
after having completed organized one-year
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instruction within specialist training in health
services or the 1st year of some other
scientific or specialist postgraduate course of
studies:
 Completed 1st year and exams
passed, grade point average 4.5
 Taking up and passing differential
courses in agreement with the leader
of the postgraduate doctoral course
 English language competence and
computer literacy
faculties outside the Republic of Croatia are
evaluated by the Teaching Commission in
terms of the degree of concordance and
quality of curriculum execution, openness of
the European academic scene and the legal
framework of the Republic of Croatia.
Candidates who have not graduated from the
Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry but
from one of the related faculties (related
faculties are e.g.: Faculty of Science, Faculty
of Food Technology and Biotechnology,
Faculty of Medicine) may enrol into the PhD
programme under the following conditions:
 Graduate studies achievement (grade
point average 4.0, or references from
two teachers)
 Recommendation and statement of
reasons from the leader of the PhD
programme
 Taking exams in differential courses
of graduate studies (an appointed
three-member board decides on the
differential courses that the
candidate has to pass)
 English language competence and
computer literacy
Total number of students allowed to transfer
from other faculties is determined for each
academic year by the Faculty Council at the
proposal of the Dean's Board, taking account
of the Faculty space and staff capacities.
Criteria and procedures of student selection
Candidates are selected based on the
graduate studies grade point average 4.0,
scientific activities (e.g. papers published in
journals indexed in Current Contents, in other
indexed journals, congress abstracts), and
recommendations of the possible doctoral
thesis supervisor.
The Teaching Commission decides whether
the listed requirements are met and whether
the request is justified. ECTS coordinator of
the Faculty offers the opinion on the ECTS
points recognition.
PRINCIPAL RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE
INSTITUTION
Transfer admission procedures – graduate
programmes
Students may transfer to this Faculty from
other pharmacy and medical biochemistry
faculties or related faculties in the Republic
of Croatia provided their curricula leading to
the award of the degrees of master of
pharmacy or master of medical biochemistry
are concordant. Transfer conditions are
provided in Articles 25-29 of the Faculty of
Pharmacy and Biochemistry Graduate
Studies Rulebook (December 2008).
Possibilities and conditions of student transfer
from pharmacy and medical biochemistry
Transfer is allowable only from the second to
the fourth study years; transfer is not possible
during the academic year in which the
student enrolled for the first time.
Besides curriculum concordance, general
conditions for student transfer from other
pharmacy and medical biochemistry and
related faculties are:
 candidate must have passed the
exams and met the other
requirements for regular enrolment in
a higher study year at the parent
faculty;
 candidate should not have repeated
any study year;
 Croatian language competence (for
foreign nationals, proven by relevant
documents).
If a larger number of candidates than that
stipulated by the decision of the Faculty
Council satisfy the general conditions,
advantage is given to candidates with better
general achievement at the faculty from
which they are transferring.
The grade point average is calculated by
taking into account grades of all exams
passed at the faculty from which the
candidate wishes to transfer, evaluated
pursuant to the ECTS system.
Foreign nationals acquire the right to transfer
to the Faculty under the same conditions as
Croatian citizens, on the basis of a special
quota and priority list, with recognition of the
previous study period.
Requests for student transfer are submitted
at the latest seven days before the ending of
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the regular registration period for the
following academic year to the Faculty
Enrolment Office in Zagreb.
Enclosures to the argumented request for
transfer:
 Student book (Index lectionum);
 Certificate of exams passed and total
grade achieved in the course of the
study so far (Official Transcripts);
 certificate issued by the faculty from
which the student is transferring that
he/she has fulfilled all the
requirements to enrol in the higher
study year;
 curriculum of the faculty from which
the student is transferring;
 Certificate of citizenship; for foreign
nationals: photocopies of the passport
and certificate of temporary
residence.
Students transferring from faculties abroad
have to submit, along with original
documents, certified translations of original
documents, as well as a certified translation
of the parent faculty curriculum (Curriculum
studiorum) and the decision on recognition of
the previous study period issued by a
competent agency.
Transfer admission procedures – PhD
programme
Individuals who have completed a specialist
course of studies in biomedicine and health or
a related field with the grade point average
of at least 4.5 and with the required number
of ECTS points can enrol in the relevant
semester of PhD programme.
postgraduate MSc studies in pharmaceutical
or medical-biochemical sciences, but have not
written and defended the final thesis, with
the grade point average of at least 4.5 and
with the required number of ECTS points can
enrol in the relevant semester of PhD
programme.
Fulfilment of the listed requirements is
controlled by the Postgraduate Studies
Commission.
Enrolment to PhD programme can be
approved to applicants who have spent some
time at organized research training abroad or
at other biomedical faculties in Croatia,
providing they meet the admission
requirements prescribed by the study
programme.
The Postgraduate Studies Commission passes
the decision on recognizing the equivalence
of a completed study programme with the
postgraduate studies curriculum.
Pursuant to the provisions of paragraph 2,
Article 14 of the Postgraduate Studies
Rulebook, the Postgraduate Studies
Commission approves enrolment to the
relevant postgraduate course of studies and
defines the conditions that the candidate has
to meet before registering the theme of
his/her PhD thesis.
INSTITUTIONAL ECTS COORDINATOR
Associate Professor Marijana Zovko Končić,
PhD
Individuals who have met all the requirements
of a specialist course of studies or
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TEACHING STAFF MEMBERS AND ASSOCIATES
1. Full Professors
a) Full-time
Barišić, PhD Karmela
Dumić, PhD Jerka
Filipović-Grčić, PhD Jelena
Kronja, PhD Olga
Lauc, PhD Gordan
Luterotti, PhD Svjetlana
Maleš, PhD Željan
Nigović, PhD Biljana
Petrik, PhD Jozsef
Rumora, PhD Lada
Vladimir Knežević, PhD Sanda
Vrček, PhD Valerije
Zorc, PhD Branka
Žanić Grubišić, PhD Tihana
b) Cumulative Employment
Romić, PhD Željko
Sučić, PhD Mirna
Zadro, PhD Renata
c) Others
Cetina-Čižmek, PhD Biserka
Čvorišćec, PhD Dubravka
Matulić, PhD Tonči
Sertić, PhD Jadranka
Šiftar, PhD Juraj
2. Associate Professors
a) Full-time
Bach-Rojecky, PhD Lidija
Dabelić, PhD Sanja
Domijan, PhD Ana-Marija
Gabričević, PhD Mario
Hafner, PhD Anita
Hazler Pilepić, PhD Kroata
Jadrijević-Mladar Takač, PhD Milena
Jug, PhD Mario
Juričić, PhD Živka
Jurišić Grubešić, PhD Renata
Kosalec, PhD Ivan
Maravić Vlahoviček, PhD Gordana
Mornar Turk, PhD Ana
Petlevski, PhD Roberta
Sanković, PhD Krešimir
Šegvić Klarić, PhD Maja
Vuković Rodriguez, PhD Jadranka
Zovko Končić, PhD Marijana
Žuntar, PhD Irena
b) Cumulative Employment
Bačić-Vrca, PhD Vesna
Rogić, PhD Dunja
Vrkić, PhD Nada
c) Others
Dodig, PhD Slavica
Galešić Ljubanović, PhD Danica
Flegar-Meštrić, PhD Zlata
Kujundžić, PhD Milan
Poropart, PhD Mirjana
Šimundić, PhD Ana-Maria
3. Assistant Professors
a) Full-time
Barbarić, PhD Monika
Bešić, PhD Erim
Blažeković, PhD Biljana
Budimir, PhD Ana
Denegri, PhD Bernard
Gornik, PhD Olga
Jurić, PhD Sandra
Lovrić, PhD Jasmina
Pepić, PhD Ivan
Pilepić, PhD Viktor
Rajić Džolić, PhD Zrinka
Šupraha Goreta, PhD Sandra
Vanić, PhD Željka
Vitali Čepo, PhD Dubravka
b) Cumulative Employment
Fumić, PhD Ksenija
c) Others
Bulimbašić, PhD Stela
Debeljak, PhD Željko
Grgurević, PhD Ivica
Marušić, PhD Srećko
Tadić, PhD Mario
4. Senior Lecturers
a) Others
Vujević, PhD Drago
5. Senior Assistants
a) Full-time
Inić, PhD Suzana
Jablan, PhD Jasna
Turčić, PhD Petra
Vujić, PhD Lovorka
b) Others
Horvatić, PhD Ivica
Mitrović, PhD Srećko
6. Assistants
a) Full-time
Bival Štefan, Maja
Crkvenčić, Maja
Hulina, Andrea
Karković Marković, Ana
Rimac, Hrvoje
b) Others
Bokun, Tomislav
7. Staff Associates
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a) Full-time
Čulić, PhD Ognjen
Kremer, PhD Dario
8. Junior Researchers
Bojić, PhD Mirza
Drinovac, Višnja
Fabijanić, PhD Ivana
Grdić Rajković, PhD Marija
Jakobušić Brala, PhD Cvijeta
Jakšić Despot, Daniela
Keser, Toma
Kindl, Marija
Marijan, Marijan
Matić, PhD Mirela
Mucalo, PhD Iva
Ortner Hadžiabdić, mr. sc. Maja
Palac, Zora
Perković, PhD Ivana
Sertić, PhD Miranda
Somborac Bačura, PhD Anita
Šakić, Davor
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GENERAL STUDENT INFORMATION
Schrottova Street is the only specialized
garden of the kind in this part of Europe.
STUDENT ASSOCIATIONS AND ACTIVITIES
A branch of the Students' Union is active at
the Faculty, as well as an association of
students of pharmacy and medical
biochemistry – CPSA (Croatian Pharmacy and
Medical Biochemistry Students’ Association).
Students' Union is made up of directly elected
student representatives. Student
representatives are members of the Faculty
Council and participate in various faculty
committees.
CPSA has the status of a full member of EPSA
(European Pharmaceutical Students'
Association) and IPSF (International
Pharmaceutical Students' Federation). CPSA is
the only association representing pharmacy
and medical biochemistry students in Croatia.
CPSA organizes charity events at the Faculty
(e.g., pancake party), voluntary blood
donation in collaboration with HZTM, project
Patient Counsulting Event. CPSA members
participate in public health campaignes (e.g.,
smoking, HIV/AIDS, diabetes rational
antibiotic use etc.), they organize
international student’s exchange within the
Student Exchange Programm, short-time
student’s exchange during academic year
(TWIN Project), student’s party and other
projects.
The FPB branch of the eSTUDENT association
has been active since October 2011. Two
teams were active in our branch: the team
for lectures and workshops and the
team for work experience and internships.
FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT
Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry works
on four locations.The Faculty building at No.
1 Ante Kovačića Street houses a lecture hall
with 200 seats, two seminar rooms, central
library, student computer room and student
common room in the yard.
Students can study and use the Internet in the
central library and students' computer room.
The Faculty location at No. 2 Domagojeva
Street houses a lecture hall with 80 seats and
a seminar room, and that at No. 39
Schrottova Street has a lecture hall with 80
seats. All lecture halls and seminar rooms are
supplied with modern audiovisual and
multimedial equipment. At each department
there is one or more student laboratories, and
at the Department of Pharmaceutics there is
also a students’ pharmacy. Faculty’s
botanical garden of medicinal, poisonous,
aromatic and food plants “Fran Kušan” in
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INFORMATION ON DEGREE
PROGRAMMES
MASTER OF PHARMACY PROGRAMME
Qualification awarded
Upon completion of the Master of Pharmacy
programme, students acquire the degree of
Master of Pharmacy (MPharm).
Educational and professional goals
The Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry,
University of Zagreb, is the only faculty and
the leading scientific-research institution in
Croatia dedicated entirely to teaching and
research in pharmacy and pharmaceutical
sciences. Known for its excellence in
pharmacy education at graduate and
postgraduate levels, as well as for its
contribution to science, the Faculty of
Pharmacy and Biochemistry is an expert
source of pharmaceutical knowledge. The
Faculty has always been ready to face the
challenges of rapid technological
advancement of modern pharmacy, and to
transfer and apply the acquired knowledge to
the benefit of individuals and the community
as a whole.
The goals and objectives of Master of
Pharmacy programme are to educate students
for competent participation in the design,
development and delivery of medications for
safe and efficient therapy.
Pharmacy studies at the Faculty of Pharmacy
and Biochemistry of the University of Zagreb
are structured as an integral ten-semester
undergraduate and graduate course of studies
(5 years, 300 ECTS points) leading to the
degree of Master of Pharmacy. Programme
emphasizes problem solving, critical thinking,
and latest scientific findings related to
medicines and modern medical treatments.
Students learn to practice as patient-oriented
healthcare professionals who will work as
team with other health care providers.
In the 5th study year, students are trained for
work in the health care system where, as drug
experts, they pomote correct and rational use
of medicines. Theoretical lectures on
pharmacotherapy with clinical pharmacy,
pharmaceutical care, health legislature,
communication skills and pharmaceutical
ethics and deontology, are followed by 6month practical training in community and
hospital pharmacies. Studies are completed
by taking the final exam and the professional
exam. Besides the diploma, the student also
acquires approval for independent work in the
health care system at jobs foreseen for
pharmacy profession (community and hospital
pharmacies).
Pharmacy studies are multidisciplinary; they
include the basic (mathematics, chemistry,
physics, statistics, biochemistry, biology,
molecular biology), biomedical (anatomy,
physiology, pathophysiology, microbiology and
parasitology, pharmacology, toxicology and
haematology) and pharmaceutical courses
(pharmaceutical botany, pharmacognosy,
pharmaceutical chemistry, biochemistry of
drugs, pharmaceutics, drug design, drug
analytics, clinical pharmacy,
pharmacotherapy, cosmetology, etc.),
through which students acquire specific
knowledge and skills in the field of pharmacy.
Pharmacy students learn the strategies of
organic drug synthesis, natural sources of
medicinal substances and biotechnological
methods of the production of drugs and
diagnostic agents. They study the physical,
chemical, biological and pharmaceuticaltechnological characteristics of drugs and use
traditional and modern methods to prove and
determine medicinal substances. Pharmacy
students also get conversant with the
structure and functions of tissues, organs and
the organism as a whole in health and
disease. They acquire knowledge of different
molecular mechanisms of drug action,
possible adverse and harmful effects as well
as interactions of drugs. They master the
technology of preparing traditional and
modern formulations and address the issues of
storage, quality control and supervision in
drug production and marketing. They develop
skills of drug dispensing and communicating
with patients (counselling about the choice of
appropriate drug and formulation, patient
compliance, monitoring side effects, correct
drug information, describing potential drug
and food interactions). They acquire
knowledge required for research and
development of new drugs and drug delivery
systems.
Masters of pharmacy, after completing the
one-year internship and passing the state
exam, get the licence to work independently
on the foreseen jobs and assignments
(community and hospital pharmacies) in the
health care system. Masters of pharmacy are
qualified for jobs in the pharmaceutical
industry (research, development, production,
control and marketing of drugs), Agency for
Medicinal Products and Medical Devices and
other public health institutions, academic
environment, etc.
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Possible access to further education
Student practice
Student practice is organized by the Centre
for Applied Pharmacy. Persons responsible for
the organization and execution of student
practice are Associate Professor Milena
Jadrijević-Mladar Takač, PhD; Associate
Professor Sanda Vladimir-Knežević, PhD;
Assistant Professor Željka Vanić, PhD; and
Assistant Professor Renata Jurišić Grubešić,
PhD.
Practical work is mandatory in the third and
fourth study years. It is organized as follows:
3rd year: In the 30 hours with a mentorpharmacist, students get familiar with:
mandatory technical literature and official
books at pharmacies (European and Croatian
Pharmacopoeias), storage of medicines and
medical substances, ordering and receiving
medicines and other products sold at
pharmacies, checking expiry dates,
monitoring supplies, weighing
monocomponent teas and sorting out
preparations.
4th year: In the 60 hours with a mentorpharmacist, students get familiar with food
supplements (herbal preparations, vitamins
and minerals, dietary products, etc.),
participate in the production of
extemporaneous and galenic preparations
(dosage control, compounding, labelling,
keeping records), learn how to apply
pharmacopeial and related regulations at the
pharmacy, get familiar with non-prescription
medicines and their purpose, dosage, side
effects, use limitations, potential interactions
with other medicines and food supplements,
and compare similar and/or related
preparations from different manufacturers.
5th study year: In the course Professional
Training for Pharmacists (720 hours in
community and hospital pharmacies) students
master: application of user pharmacy
programs and procedures of keeping
mandatory turnover and business records,
dispensing prescription medicines and
medicines from special drug groups
(psychotherapeutic substances and narcotics),
procedures of preparation, dispensing,
distribution and monitoring turnover of
medicines at hospital pharmacies. Students
also aquire the knowledge and skills of
correct monitoring and reporting of side
effects,and are informed about the group of
products "Cosmetics" and "Special Purpose
Cosmetics", and master the ways of providing
pharmaceutical care.
Upon completion of pharmacy studies,
students may continue scientific and research
oriented education at postgraduate PhD
studies, professional training at postgraduate
specialist studies, professional training within
pharmacy specialization in the health system
and continuing education via relevant
courses.
Degree Thesis and Final Exam
The Study is completed by passing all the
exams and completing the other study
obligations, by making the thesis and taking
the public graduation examination as well as
the final exam after the professional training
in accordance with the study programme
having been done.
Pursuant to the Rule Book on Graduate
Studies at the University of Zagreb
Faculty
of Pharmacy and Biochemistry (July 2014),
Article 63 and 64:
1. Degree thesis is a paper prepared by
the student under the supervision of a
mentor at the Faculty or some other
institution enabling scientific and
research work according to the
Instructions for degree thesis
preparation.
2. Preparation of degree thesis is
organized by the Degree Thesis
Commission.
3. Degree thesis is a paper written by
the student under supervision of
his/her mentor at the Faculty or some
other institution with scientific and
research work potentials according to
the Guidelines for Degree Thesis
Preparation.
4. At the degree examination, the
student proves his/her competence to
apply the knowledge and skills
acquired in the course of studies as
well as his/her ability to solve the
problems and tasks of his/her
profession.
5. Degree examination is an oral exam
and consists of Degree Thesis defence
and of testing the candidate’s
knowledge of the field covered by the
Degree Thesis.
6. Degree examination is a public exam,
taken before the Examining Board
appointed by the Dean at the
suggestion of the Degree Thesis
Commission.
7. Degree Thesis Commission sets the
dates of degree examinations, and
12
informs about these dates the
Commision members, the students,
and the Faculty Enrolment Office.
Graduate studies end by taking the
professional exam before the Examining Board
appointed by the Dean.
Professional exam can be taken after all the
student obligations have been fulfilled,
including six-month professional training for
pharmacists.
The student who meets the following
requirements
can
access
the
final
examination:
a. he or she studied at the Faculty for at
least two years,
b. he or she met all the requirements of
compulsory and elective forms of
teaching, stipulated by the executive
teaching plan,
c. he or she passed all the prescribed
examinations and earned a minimum of
300 ECTS credits,
d. he or she passed the graduation
examination.
Examinations and other learning controls
Rule Book on Graduate Studies at the
University of Zagreb Faculty of Pharmacy
and Biochemistry (July 2014), Article 41:
1. Students' knowledge and skills can be
checked at subject examinations
and/or evaluated during the course
(midterms, practical assignments,
seminar papers, project assignments,
etc.). The study programme may
postulate that ECTS points for
particular types of instruction may be
also gained without marking students'
performance or by its descriptive
evaluation.
2. Examinations may be theoretical or
practical and are taken only as
written, or only as oral, or as written
and oral exams, or by
demonstration/presentation of a
practical assignment.
3. Exams may be theoretical or
practical, and are taken only in
written form, only orally, or in
written form and orally, or through
presentation of a practical
assignment.
4. Practical part of the examination can
be taken separately from the
theoretical part. Overall examination
must be completed in not more than
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
five working days, except for special
legitimate cases.
Examining a student at an oral
examination must not take more than
30 minutes. Written examinations can
last up to 120 minutes.
Written part of the examination can
be eliminatory, except when the
examination is taken before the
examining board.
Students are entitled to access to
marked written examination papers.
Examinations are free of charge.
Students cannot sit more than four
times for an exam in the same course.
The fourth time, the exam is taken
before the examining board. Students
who fail in the fourth attempt to pass
the exam in the same course must
take up that course again in the
following academic year. Should the
student fail the exam in the fourth
attempt in the following academic
year, he will be disallowed to
continue the same programme.
Exam before the examining board
Article 49:
1. Dean, or in his absence the Vice Dean
for Academic Affairs, appoints the
examining board.
2. The examining board is made up of the
course leader and two other members
of the faculty teaching staff. One
board member has to be from a
different course.
3. The course leader cannot act as the
board chairperson.
4. A student is entitled to take an exam
before the examining board
irrespective of his/her achievement in
the written exam.
5. The decision of the examining board is
made by majority vote; the
examination application slip is signed
by all members of the examining
board.
6. Course leader enters the grade into the
student’s book and signs it.
7. The board chairperson is making the
records of the exam before examining
board.
The grade awarded by the examining board
cannot be appealed.
13
Course structure diagram - PHARMACY
COURSE
STATUS
Compulsory
C
O
U
R
SIntroduction to Pharmacy
F
1
E
FMathematics with Statistical Analysis
1
0
CCell Biology with Genetics
F
1
O
0Physics
F
-D
2
1
EGeneral Chemistry with Stoichiometry
0
F
3
1
0
8
0
5
TOTAL HOURS
COURSE TITLE
ECTS
L
S
E
F
15
0
0
0
1.5
45
30
0
0
7.5
30
15
30
0
7.5
30
15
30
0
7.5
60
45
30
0
11
180
105
90
0
35
1st semester
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
Physical training - the student enrols for 30 hours
COURSE
STATUS
Compulsory
C
O
U
R
S
FPharmaceutical Botany
E
1
FSociology and HealthCare
C
1
0Analytical Chemistry 1
F
-O
7
1
DPhysical Chemistry 1
0
F
E
4
1
1
0
1
4
TOTAL HOURS
COURSE TITLE
ECTS
L
S
E
F
30
15
30
0
7.5
15
15
0
0
2.5
30
15
30
0
7.5
30
15
30
0
7.5
105
60
90
0
25
2nd semester
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
Physical training - the student enrols for 30 hours
14
COURSE
STATUS
Compulsory
C
O
U
R
S
F
EAnalytical Chemistry 2
1
FPhysical Chemistry 2
-C
1
1
F
-OOrganic Chemistry
0
1
D
1
F
-EBiological Chemistry
4
1
1
1
1
3
TOTAL HOURS
COURSE TITLE
ECTS
L
S
E
F
30
0
30
0
6
30
15
15
0
6
60
30
45
0
11.5
30
0
15
0
3.5
150
45
105
0
27
3rd semester
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
Physical Training - the student enrols for 30 hours
COURSE
STATUS
Compulsory
C
O
U
R
S
EPhysiology with Human Anatomy
F
1
F
-CMicrobiology with Parasitology
1
O
0Biochemistry
F
-D
6
1
1
F
E
-Pharmacognosy 1
5
1
1
6
1
8
TOTAL HOURS
COURSE TITLE
ECTS
L
S
E
F
60
45
0
0
9
60
0
30
0
8
60
10
30
0
8.5
30
15
45
0
7.5
210
70
105
0
33
4th semester
Total compulsory courses:
15
Total elective courses:
Physical Training – the student enrols for 30 hours
COURSE
STATUS
Compulsory
Elective
Elective
C
COURSE TITLE
O
U
R
5th semester
S
FPharmacognosy 2
E
1
FPathophysiology with Pathology
C
1
1
F
-OMedicinal Chemistry 1
8
1
DPharmaceutics
1
F
E
7
1
1
-9
2Pharmacy Informatics
F
1
FPhysical Chemistry Methods in Biomedical Research
1
5
FHealth Ecology
4
1
4Applied Psychology - selected Topics
F
8
1
5Modern Biochemical Techniques
F
0
1
4
-6
4
9
COURSE
STATUS
TOTAL HOURS
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
S
E
F
30
15
30
0
6
60
30
0
0
7.5
45
7
60
0
9
30
15
0
0
3.5
165
60
90
0
26
15
15
0
0
2.5
15
0
15
0
2.5
15
0
0
0
1.5
20
10
0
0
2.5
15
15
0
0
2.5
80
40
15
0
11.5
TOTAL HOURS
COURSE TITLE
ECTS
L
ECTS
L
S
E
F
15
15
30
0
5
30
15
30
0
6
6th semester
FBiopharmacy with Pharmacokinetics
1
FMolecular Biology with Genetic Engineering
1
2
1
2
2
16
Compulsory
Elective
FClinical Biochemistry with Haematology
1
F
-Nutritional Biochemistry
1
2
FMedicinal Chemistry 2
-4
1
2Professional Practice 1
F
3
1
1
9
1
FSpectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds
2
1
FHistory of Pharmacy
1
5Metalloproteins - Structure and Mechanism
F
-3
1
4
FSelected Methods of Instrumental Analysis
3
1
6
1
4
7
COURSE
STATUS
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
35
10
30
0
6
30
0
30
0
5
45
8
0
0
5
0
0
0
30
2
155
48
120
30
29
10
10
10
0
2.5
15
0
0
0
1.5
5
10
5
0
2
10
0
20
0
2.5
40
35
35
0
8.5
TOTAL HOURS
COURSE TITLE
ECTS
L
S
E
F
75
40
20
0
10. 5
60
0
45
0
9
60
15
60
0
10,5
195
55
125
0
30
30
0
0
0
2.5
15
15
0
0
2.5
15
15
0
0
2.5
20
10
0
0
2.5
80
40
0
0
10
7th semester
Compulsory
Elective
FPharmacology
1
FDrug Formulation
1
2Pharmaceutical Analysis
F
5
1
2
6
2
FPharmacoeconomics
7
1
F
-Medicinal Chemistry – Selected Topics
1
5Molecular Basis of Diseases and Therapy
F
6
1
F3Applied Microbiology
11
6
2
5
9
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
17
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
8th semester
Compulsory
Eelective
COURSE
STATUS
FImmunology
1
FDrug Metabolism
1
3Magistral Formulation
F
8
1
2
FAnalytical Toxicology
-8
1
3Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapy
F
0
1
2Professional Practice 2
F
0
1
3
9
1
FIsolation of Bioactive Natural Products
2
1
FPhytotherapy
1
F
5
-Experimental Pharmacology
1
2
F
5Analysis in Pharmaceutical Products Development
-1
7
F
5
-Quality Assurance and Drug Registration
1
8
F
3Inovative Drug Delivery Systems
-1
5
3
6
3
4
COURSE TITLE
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
30
0
0
0
2.5
45
15
30
0
8
0
5
40
0
3.5
30
15
15
0
5
45
15
15
0
6
0
0
0
60
3
150
50
100
60
28
15
5
10
0
2.5
15
15
0
0
2.5
15
0
15
0
2.5
15
0
15
0
2.5
15
15
5
15
0
0
0
0
2
25
90
40
40
0
14.5
TOTAL HOURS
ECTS
L
S
E
F
30
0
30
0
5
15
0
0
0
1.5
30
30
0
0
5
15
0
0
0
1.5
9th semester
Compulsory
FCosmetology
1
FPharmaceutical Ethics and Deontology
1
2Pharmaceutical Care*
F
-9
1
6
FHealthcare Legislation*
8
1
4
0
5
5
18
FCommunication Skills*
1
FThesis
1
4
5
4
F
2Biochemical Basis of Toxicity of Endobiotics and and Xenobiotics
1
FDrugs Design
1
3Industrial Pharmacy
F
3
1
F
3Pharmacogenetics
1
2
F
-6Personalized Healthcare
Elective
1
7
F
6Nutrition Therapy
1
4
F
-6Sociology in Pharmacy
1
5
6Biostatistics
F
-6
1
6
9
6
* Theoretical part
0 of Professional Training for Pharmacists
COURSE
STATUS
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
0
15
0
0
1.5
0
0
100
0
10
90
45
130
0
24.5
15
15
0
0
2.5
30
15
0
0
3.5
15
15
0
0
2.5
10
15
5
0
2.5
15
5
0
0
2
15
15
0
0
2.5
15
0
0
0
1.5
15
15
0
0
2.5
140
105
5
0
19.5
TOTAL HOURS
COURSE TITLE
L
S
E
F
0
0
0
720
ECTS
10th semester
L – lectures; S
FProfessional Training for Pharmacists
1
–4 seminars; E – experimental work; F
1
– field classes
19
30
MASTER OF MEDICAL BIOCHEMISTRY
PROGRAMME
Qualification awarded
Upon completion of the Master of Medical
Biochemistry programme, students acquire
the degree of Master of Medical
Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine
(MMedBiochem).
Educational and professional goals
The Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry,
University of Zagreb, is the only faculty and
the leading scientific-research institution in
Croatia dedicated entirely to teaching and
research in medical biochemistry. Renowned
for its excellence in medical-biochemical
education, both undergraduate and graduate,
and its contribution to science, the Faculty
constitutes an expert source of extensive
medical-biochemical knowledge. The Faculty
has always been ready to face challenges
ensuing from the rapid technological progress
of contemporary medical biochemistry, and to
extend, disseminate and apply the acquired
knowledge and skills to the benefit of
individuals and the community as a whole.
The goals and objectives of Master of Medical
biochemistry programme are to train students
to examine human life in health and disease
from the chemical, biochemical and
molecular-biological aspects.
Medical biochemistry is an interdisciplinary
scientific field, the scientific findings of
which are applied in the health system with
the aim of efficient diagnosing, disease and
therapy monitoring, and prevention of
pathological conditions. Modern medicine,
closely connected with the development of
science and technology, is today
inconceivable without medical-biochemical
diagnostics.
Applying biochemical, hematological,
molecular-biological and chemical
procedures, techniques and technologies of
testing biological materials, masters in
medical biochemistry and laboratory medicine
contribute to determination of causes of
disease, health maintenance, disease
prevention, monitoring treatment outcomes
and to new scientific findings.
Medical biochemistry integrates the findings
of modern general and analytical
biochemistry and cellular and molecular
biology with physiological and
pathophysiological processes, making it
possible to understand pathological processes
at the molecular level and to identify novel
diagnostic and prognostic indicators of
diseases.
Medical biochemistry studies are structured as
an integral ten-semester undergraduate and
graduate course of studies (5 years, 300 ECTS
points) leading to the award of the degree of
Master of Medical Biochemistry and
Laboratory Medicine.
Medical biochemistry studies are
multidisciplinary; they include the basic
(mathematics, chemistry, physics, statistics,
biochemistry, biology, molecular biology,
genetics), biomedical (anatomy, physiology,
pathophysiology, histology and cytology,
immunology, microbiology and parasitology,
pharmacology, toxicology and haematology)
and medical biochemistry courses (general
clinical biochemistry, transfusiology with
immuno-haematology, coagulation,
integrated course of laboratory diagnostics,
molecular diagnostics, etc.) through which
students acquire specific knowledge and skills
in the field of medical biochemistry. The
extensive practical programme and research
projects develop teamwork skills and
introduce students to the practical aspects of
modern medical biochemistry.
The curriculum trains masters of medical
biochemistry and laboratory medicine to
expertly interpret patients’ biochemical and
haematological findings, thereby making
them important members of the medical
team involved in patient treatment.
As part of the course in medical biochemistry,
students will acquire knowledge and skills of
communication sciences, laboratory
management, electronic data processing, and
laboratory system computerization.
In the 5th study year, students are trained for
work in the health care system. Theoretical
instruction in professional courses is followed
by 6-month professional training in medicalbiochemical laboratories. The course is
completed by taking the final exam and the
professional exam; besides the graduation
diploma, the student gets approval for
independent work in the profession.
Masters in medical biochemistry and
laboratory medicine can work in medicalbiochemical laboratories of primary health
care institutions, polyclinics, general and
special hospitals, clinics, teaching hospitals
and private health institutions, in research,
analytical, biotechnological laboratories,
marketing of biomedical diagnostic products,
public health institutions, and academic
institutions.
20
Professional practice
Persons responsible for the organization and
execution of student practice for medical
biochemistry students is Marija Grdić
Rajković, PhD.
Student practice is an obligatory subject
during the third and fourth study years and is
organized in the following way:
3rd year: In the 30 hours with a mentormaster in medical biochemistry, students take
part in less demanding operations in the
medical-biochemical laboratory: they get
familiar with the recommended methods and
appertaining reference intervals in general
medical biochemistry for the following
laboratory tests: metabolites and substrates;
enzymes; electrolytes; trace elements;
proteins; lipids; and qualitative urine
analysis.
4th year: In the 60 hours with a mentormaster in medical biochemistry, students take
part in less demanding operations in the
cytological, microbiological and molecular
diagnostics laboratories. They learn and
independently apply simple methods of the
parasitology laboratory and molecular
diagnostics and cytology laboratories.
5th year: In the course Professional Training,
students acquire the knowledge and skills for
independent work in the medical-biochemical
laboratory. The program comprises two
professional units: medical biochemistry (500
hours) and hematology with coagulation (250
hours). Students acquire the knowledge and
skills for taking, identification and delivery
of samples, sample preparation for analysis,
treatment of samples in biochemical,
hematological and coagulation analyzers.
Possible access to further education
Upon completion of medical biochemistry
studies, students may continue scientific and
research oriented education at postgraduate
PhD studies, professional training at
postgraduate specialist studies and within
medical biochemistry specialization in the
health system and continuing education via
relevant courses.
Degree Thesis and Final Exam
The Study is completed by passing all the
exams and completing the other study
obligations, by making the thesis and taking
the public graduation examination as well as
the final exam after the professional training
in accordance with the study programme
having been done.
Pursuant to the Rule Book on Graduate
Studies at the University of Zagreb
Faculty
of Pharmacy and Biochemistry (July 2014),
Article 63 and 64:
8. Degree thesis is a paper prepared by
the student under the supervision of a
mentor at the Faculty or some other
institution enabling scientific and
research work according to the
Instructions for degree thesis
preparation.
9. Preparation of degree thesis is
organized by the Degree Thesis
Commission.
10. Degree thesis is a paper written by
the student under supervision of
his/her mentor at the Faculty or some
other institution with scientific and
research work potentials according to
the Guidelines for Degree Thesis
Preparation.
11. At the degree examination, the
student proves his/her competence to
apply the knowledge and skills
acquired in the course of studies as
well as his/her ability to solve the
problems and tasks of his/her
profession.
12. Degree examination is an oral exam
and consists of Degree Thesis defence
and of testing the candidate’s
knowledge of the field covered by the
Degree Thesis.
13. Degree examination is a public exam,
taken before the Examining Board
appointed by the Dean at the
suggestion of the Degree Thesis
Commission.
14. Degree Thesis Commission sets the
dates of degree examinations, and
informs about these dates the
Commision members, the students,
and the Faculty Enrolment Office.
Graduate studies end by taking the
professional exam before the Examining Board
appointed by the Dean.
Professional exam can be taken after all the
student obligations have been fulfilled,
including six-month professional training for
pharmacists.
The student who meets the following
requirements
can
access
the
final
examination:
 he or she studied at the Faculty for at
least two years,
 he or she met all the requirements of
compulsory and elective forms of
21


teaching, stipulated by the executive
teaching plan,
he or she passed all the prescribed
examinations and earned a minimum of
300 ECTS credits,
he or she passed the graduation
examination.
Examinations and other learning controls
Rule Book on Graduate Studies at the
University of Zagreb Faculty of Pharmacy
and Biochemistry (July 2014), Article 41:
1. Students' knowledge and skills can be
checked at subject examinations
and/or evaluated during the course
(midterms, practical assignments,
seminar papers, project assignments,
etc.). The study programme may
postulate that ECTS points for
particular types of instruction may be
also gained without marking students'
performance or by its descriptive
evaluation.
2. Examinations may be theoretical or
practical and are taken only as
written, or only as oral, or as written
and oral exams, or by
demonstration/presentation of a
practical assignment.
3. Exams may be theoretical or
practical, and are taken only in
written form, only orally, or in
written form and orally, or through
presentation of a practical
assignment.
4. Practical part of the examination can
be taken separately from the
theoretical part. Overall examination
must be completed in not more than
five working days, except for special
legitimate cases.
5. Examining a student at an oral
examination must not take more than
30 minutes. Written examinations can
last up to 120 minutes.
6. Written part of the examination can
be eliminatory, except when the
examination is taken before the
examining board.
7. Students are entitled to access to
marked written examination papers.
8. Examinations are free of charge.
9. Students cannot sit more than four
times for an exam in the same course.
The fourth time, the exam is taken
before the examining board. Students
who fail in the fourth attempt to pass
the exam in the same course must
take up that course again in the
following academic year. Should the
student fail the exam in the fourth
attempt in the following academic
year, he will be disallowed to
continue the same programme.
Exam before the examining board
Article 49:
1. Dean, or in his absence the Vice Dean
for Academic Affairs, appoints the
examining board.
2. The examining board is made up of the
course leader and two other members
of the faculty teaching staff. One
board member has to be from a
different course.
3. The course leader cannot act as the
board chairperson.
4. A student is entitled to take an exam
before the examining board
irrespective of his/her achievement in
the written exam.
5. The decision of the examining board is
made by majority vote; the
examination application slip is signed
by all members of the examining
board.
6. Course leader enters the grade into the
student’s book and signs it.
7. The board chairperson is making the
records of the exam before examining
board.
The grade awarded by the examining board
cannot be appealed.
22
Course structure diagram – MEDICINAL BIOCHEMISTRY
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
1th semester
Compulsory
Introduction to Medical Biochemistry
15
0
0
0
1,5
Mathematics with Statistical Analysis
45
30
0
0
7,5
Cell Biology with Genetics
30
15
30
0
7,5
Physics
30
15
30
0
7,5
General Chemistry with Stoichiometry
60
45
30
0
11
180
105
90
0
35
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
Physical Training – the student enrols for 30 sati
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
2th semester
Compulsory
Cytology and histology
30
15
10
0
5,5
Sociology and Healthcare
15
15
0
0
2,5
Analytical Chemistry 1
30
15
30
0
7,5
Physical Chemistry 1
30
15
30
0
7,5
Bioethics
15
5
0
0
2
120
65
70
0
25
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
Physical Training – the student enrols for 30 sati
23
COURSE
STATUS
TOTAL HOURS
COURSE TITLE
ECTS
L
S
E
F
Analytical Chemistry 2
30
0
30
0
6
Physical Chemistry 2
30
15
15
0
6
Organic Chemistry
60
30
45
0
11
Biological Chemistry
30
15
15
0
6
150
60
105
0
29
3th semester
Compulsory
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
Physical Training – the student enrols for 30 sati
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
4th semester
Compulsory
Physiology with Human Anatomy
60
45
0
0
9
Microbiology with Parasitology
60
0
30
0
8
Biochemistry
60
15
45
0
10,5
Medicinal Chemistry
30
0
0
0
3,5
210
60
75
0
31
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
Physical Training – the student enrols for 30 sati
24
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
5th semester
Compulsory
Pathophysiology and Pathology
60
30
0
0
7,5
General Clinical Biochemistry
60
30
90
0
13,5
Hematology 1
30
5
25
0
5
Physical Biochemistry
30
20
10
0
5
180
85
125
0
31
Biological Membranes and Cell Signalling
15
15
0
0
2,5
Physical Chemistry Methods in Biomedical Research
15
0
15
0
2,5
Environmental Health
15
0
0
0
1,5
Modern Biochemical Techniques
15
15
0
0
2,5
60
30
15
0
9
Total compulsory courses:
Elective
Total elective courses:
COURSE
STATUS
Compulsory
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
6th semester
Clinical Biochemistry of Organs and Organ Systems 1
30
15
0
0
4
Analitical Biochemistry
30
0
30
0
5
Hematology 2
25
15
20
0
5
Immunology
30
15
0
0
4
Molecular Biology with Genetic Engineering
30
15
30
0
6
Professional Practice 1
0
0
0
30
2
145
45
80
30
26
Total compulsory courses:
25
Elective
Spectroscopic Identification of Organic Compounds
10
10
10
0
2,5
Metalloproteins - Structure and Mechanism
5
10
5
0
2
Selected Methods of Instrumental Analysis
10
0
20
0
2,5
Membrane Transport of Substances and Information
15
15
0
0
2,5
40
35
35
0
9,5
Total elective courses:
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
7th semester
Compulsory
Humane and Population Genetics
15
5
10
0
2,5
Molecular Diagnostics
30
15
15
0
5
Coagulation
15
15
15
0
4
Clinical Biochemistry of Organ and Organ Systems 2
30
15
30
0
6
Pharmacology
75
10
20
0
8,5
Immunochemistry
14
8
8
0
2,5
Neurochemistry
8
4
3
0
1,5
187
72
101
0
30
NutritionTherapy
15
15
0
0
2,5
Selected Topics from Applied Psychology
15
15
0
0
2,5
Communication Skills
0
15
0
0
1,5
30
45
0
0
6,5
Total compulsory courses:
Elective
Total elective courses:
26
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
8th semester
Compulsory
Nutritional Biochemistry
30
0
30
0
5
Special Topics in Clinical Biochemistry
15
15
30
0
5
Drug Metabolism
30
0
30
0
5
Transfusiology and Immunohaematology
15
0
15
0
2,5
Analytical Toxicology
30
15
15
0
5
Professional Practice 2
0
0
0
60
3
120
45
120
60
25,5
Culturing of Cells and Cell Lines
10
10
10
0
2,5
Bioanorganic Chemistry
10
0
5
0
1,5
Free Radicals and Antioxidants in Health and Disease
15
8
7
0
2,5
35
18
22
0
6,5
Total compulsory courses:
Elective
Total elective courses:
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
F
ECTS
9th semester
Compulsory
Biostatistics
15
15
0
0
2,5
Integrated Laboratory Diagnostics Course
0
30
0
0
2,5
Instruments, Procedures and Reagents Evaluation
15
15
0
0
2,5
Organization and Management of Medical Biochemistry Laboratory*
30
15
0
0
3,5
Healthcare Legislation in Laboratory Medicine*
15
0
0
0
1,5
Diploma Thesis
0
0
100
0
10
75
75
100
0
22,5
Total compulsory courses:
27
Elective
Laboratory Endocrinology
15
10
5
0
2,5
Epidemiology Basics and Microbial Diagnostics
15
0
15
0
2,5
Point of Care Testing
6
3
6
0
1,5
Complex Genetics
15
15
0
0
2,5
Emergency Laboratory Diagnostics
15
10
5
0
2,5
Rational Laboratory Diagnostics
10
5
0
0
1,5
Radionuclides Application in Diagnostics
15
0
0
0
1,5
91
43
31
0
14,5
Total elective courses:
* Theoretical part of Professional Training for Pharmacists
COURSE
STATUS
COURSE TITLE
L
TOTAL HOURS
S
E
ECTS
F
10th semester
0
Professional Training
Compulsory
Total compulsory courses:
Total elective courses:
L – lectures; S – seminars; E – experimental work; F – field classes
28
0
0
750
30
750
30
PhD PROGRAMME IN "PHARMACEUTICALBIOCHEMICAL SCIENCES"
Qualification awarded
Upon completion of the PhD programme in
"Pharmaceutical-Biochemical Sciences" and
defence of the PhD thesis, students acquire
the academic degree of Doctor of Science
(Doctor of Philosophy, PhD), scientific field
Biomedicine and Health.
Educational and professional goals
The goal of PhD programme is to prepare
independent, creative scientists to excel in
academia, the pharmaceutical industry and
other research institutions.
PhD studies in "Pharmaceutical-Biochemical
Sciences" of the Faculty of Pharmacy and
Biochemistry, University of Zagreb, are
organized in two modules: Pharmaceutical
Sciences and Medical-Biochemical Sciences.
PhD studies are structured and run as fulltime or part-time study courses.
The programme is intended for pharmacists,
medical biochemists and other professionals
in the field of Biomedicine and Health and the
field of Natural Sciences.
Doctoral studies last 3-4 years for full-time
and 6-8 years for part-time students, during
which time a minimum of 180 ECTS credits
have to be earned.
The studies comprise A) organized lectures
(basic, modular, methodological and elective
courses) and B) active engagement in
research. PhD studies end by taking an exam,
favourable assessment of research activities,
award of a passing grade and defence of the
PhD thesis.
Courses are divided in 4 ECTS credit point
groups:
Credit point groups of courses
1. Basic courses
2. Modular courses
3. Methodological courses
4. Elective courses
Possible access to further education
Upon completion of postgraduate studies in
"Pharmaceutical-Biochemical Sciences",
students may continue education within
postdoctoral training at different universities
and scientific institutions in Croatia and
abroad.
Tuition and fees
The tuition fee, extra costs of postgraduate
studies as well as the conditions and method
of payment are determined by the Faculty.
Doctoral thesis
Postgraduate PhD studies end with the
preparation and defence of the PhD thesis.
The PhD is the product of intensive research
at the doctoral level, distinguished by its
deeper, more comprehensive, professional
and scholarly treatment of the subject. The
PhD thesis is expected to represent
independent and original research in the field
of the candidate’s postgraduate study. It
must add to understanding in the candidate’s
field. The project must be of sufficient
difficulty and depth to test the candidate’s
ability to carry out research independently,
and it should show a mastery of the skills
needed for such research.
ECTS
4
10
4
18
The remaining required ECTS points (144 ECTS
points) can be acquired through different
forms of compulsory and elective scientific
activities.
29
POSTGRADUATE SPECIALIST STUDIES
Educational and professional goals
Postgraduate specialist studies at the Faculty
of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of
Zagreb, are structured and run as separate
studies of one (2 semesters) or two (4
semesters) years duration or as a mandatory
part of a health specialization.
The studies are a form of continuing
education, or life-long learning, for
pharmacists, medical biochemists and related
professions.
Programmes of postgraduate specialist studies
are harmonized with the European system of
point transfer, in which the total point value
of course contents taken amounts to 60-120
ECTS.
Starting from academic year 2010./2011.
the following postgraduate specialist study
courses are offered at the Faculty of
Pharmacy and Biochemistry:
Dermatopharmacy and Cosmetology, Drug
Development, Phytopharmacy with
Dietotherapy, Clinical Pharmacy,
Toxicology, Molecular Diagnostics, Medical
Biochemistry and Laboratory Medicine, and
Farmacogenomics: a novel approach to
therapy optimization.
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are paid by students themselves
or with support of a government institution,
legal or physical entity that has referred them
to the Faculty.
The amount of the fee, tuition fee for foreign
students, extra costs of postgraduate
specialist studies, the manner and terms of
payment are determined by the Faculty.
Specialist degree thesis
Postgraduate specialist studies end by
students' writing and defending a specialist
degree thesis, an independent paper
proving that the candidate has acquired
specialized professional knowledge required
for highly professional jobs.
Qualification awarded
Upon completion of studies, the Faculty
issues a diploma and awards the academic
degree of master of a profession or part of
profession corresponding to the study
program.
30
DESCRIPTION OF INDIVIDUAL COURSES –
MASTER OF PHARMACY PROGRAMME
INTRODUCTION TO PHARMACY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 1
Number of ECTS points: 1
Lecturers: Professor Sanda VladimirKnežević, Assistant Professor Renata Jurišić
Grubešić, Associate Professor Željka Vanić
Aim of course: The aim of course is to learn
the main characteristics of pharmaceutical
science and practice, what is an occupation
of contemporary pharmacy that is a structure
of pharmacy studying, various possibilities of
professional activities in a health system,
development of experimental method and
nomenclature, as well as notices about
professional moral and ethics.
Prerequisite: entrance examination passed at
the Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry
Course content:
Allegoric review of Pharmacy and mythology
in pharmacy. Creative power of pharmacy and
unusual biographies. Goethe and pharmacy.
About pharmacy essence and pharmaceutical
chart of Europe. Chemistry and pharmacy.
The pharmacist and science. Pharmacopetal
science and Nobel prices. Pharmaceutical
literature and library. Pharmaceutical,
media, and medical information and data
circulation. Information in chemistry and drug
nomenclature. Pharmaceutical metrology,
laboratory work and quality assurance.
Observation as an origin of knowledge,
experiment and scientific conclusion.
Pharmacist as health educator.
Pharmacotherapy for non-professionals. Ask
about your medicines. Ethics, deontology, and
citizens. Introduction to medicines and
pharmacology. Anatomic Therapeutic
Chemical classification, pharmacy laws,
patent and the trademarks. Finished product
packaging. The pharmacy and its equipment.
Drug manufacture, dosage forms, routes of
administration and containers.
Pharmaceutical terms and graphy. Women in
pharmacy.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian
MATHEMATICS WITH STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 1
Number of ECTS points: 7,5
Lecturer: Professor Juraj Šiftar
Aim of course: Basic principles of
mathematical logic and functional analysis
needed to understand and solve typical
problems in physics, chemistry, biochemistry,
pharmacy.
Prerequisite: Course content:
Lectures:
The function of one variable: basic terms and
general characteristics. Basic elementary
functions. Elementary functions describing
molecular potential, molecular motions,
chemical and enzymatic kinetics, radioactive
decay. Limit and differential of a function.
Meaning of the differential in physicalchemical processes. Derivatives of functions,
analytical and geometrical interpretation.
Investigating functions with the aid of first
and second derivatives. Application of
derivatives to the analysis of chemical
balance, velocity of chemical and biochemical
reactions, Taylor’s and Maclaurin’s series:
application to molecular potential functions
and to linearization of physical-chemical
equilibrium problems. Integral calculus:
general rules of integration, indefinite and
definite integrals. Application of integrals:
arc length, area under the function.
Differential equations. Equations of the first
order, linear equations, differential equations
of the second order. Application of
differential equations in kinetics, kinematics,
photometry, radioactivity.
Basic probability concept. Descriptive
statistics. Discrete and continuos statistical
distributions: binomal, Poisson, normal.
Estimation. Sampling theory. Hypothesis
testing. One-sample hypothesis testing.
Statistical hypothesis testing for two
independent samples. Parametric statistical
tests: chi-square test, z-test, F-test, t-test.
Non-parametric statistical testing.
Correlation. Simple linear regression.
Seminars:
Solving relevant lectures and applied
problems.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian
CELL BIOLOGY WITH GENETICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 1
Number of ECTS points: 7.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Ana-Marija
Domijan
Aim of course: The course addresses general
and specific principles of cellular biology and
basic principles, theories and mechanisms of
31
heredity. It begins by looking at the evolution
of the cell and then progresses to the
chemistry, anatomy and physiology of
intracellular compartments. Commonly used
techniques in cell biology will be introduced
both in laboratory work and in lectures.
Prerequisite: Course content:
Lectures:
Cell evolution: from the molecule to the first
cell; from prokaryotic cell to the eukaryotic
cell. Cell nucleus: eukaryotic DNA is packaged
into chromosomes; chromosome structure.
Membrane structure und function: the lipid
bilayer; membrane proteins. Principles of
membrane transport: carrier proteins and
active transport; ion channels and the
membrane potential. Intracellular
compartments and transport: protein sorting;
vesicular transport; secretory pathways;
endocytic pathways. Energy generation:
mitochondria and oxidative phosphorylation;
chloroplasts and photosynthesis.
Cytoskeleton: intermediate filaments;
microtubules; cilia and flagella; actin
filaments. Cell-cycle control and cell death:
cell-cycle control system; programmed cell
death (apoptosis).
Seminars:
Introduction to the cell: microscope; cell
culture; cell fractionation. Cell division:
mitosis; cytokinesis. Sexual reproduction: the
benefits of sex; meiosis; fertilization. Mendel
and idea of gene: monohybrid and dihybrid
crossing; laws of inheritance. Chromosomal
basis of heredity: Chromosomal theory of
heredity: Morgan and Drosophila; linkage
genes. Chromosomal basis of recombination:
recombination of nonlinkage genes:
independent assortment; recombination of
linkage genes: crossing over. Sex
chromosomes and sex linkage. Chromosomal
aberrations: variation in chromosomal
structure; variation in chromosomal number.
Human genetics.
Laboratory:
Cells under the microscope; Prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells; Cell membrane; Intracellular
compartments; Mitochondria and
chloroplasts; Mitosis; Meiosis; Nucleus in
interphase: polythene chromosomes; Shape
and structure of eukaryotic chromosomes.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
GENERAL CHEMISTRY AND STOICHIOMETRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 11
Number of ECTS points:
Lecturer: Assistent Professor Mario
Gabričević, Assistant Professor Ana Budimir
Aim of course: Students learn the following
subjects: 1. Chemical calculation
(Stoichiometry), 2. Chemical structure, 3.
Chemical bonds, 4. Coordination compounds,
5. Intermolecular forces and bonds, 6.
Solutions and their properties, 7. Colour of
inorganic compounds, 8. Electrochemistry.
Prerequisites: Course content:
Lectures: Basic chemical laws, periodic
system of chemical elements, electronic
structure of the atom, bonding theories,
molecule orbitales, aggregate phases of
substances, intermolecular forces, chemical
reactions, thermochemistry and basics of
thermodynamics, rate of chemical reactions
and chemical equilibrium, absorption of
electromagnetic radiation in inorganic
compounds, water properties, most
significant inorganic compounds in living
organisms.
Laboratory: Labware, physical and chemical
changes, transfer of chemicals, weighing,
evaporation and determination of dry
substances, distillation of acidic solution of
cooper(II)-sulphate pentahydrate, filtration,
iodine sublimation, extraction of iodine from
water solution by chloroform, separation of
different cations by the ring paperchromatography, preparation of solutions,
temperature dependence of solubility,
structure dependence of solubility, mixing
liquids with liquids, dissolution of ammonia in
water, electrolytic dissociation, electric
conductivity in solutions, redox reactions
between sulphur and oxygen, formation and
dissociation of coordination compounds, acidbase titration, dependence of reaction rate
on reactant concentrations, temperature, and
reactant surfaces, effect of catalyst on the
reaction rate, shift of chemical equilibrium,
indicators and pH measurement, copper
electrolysis, Faraday constant determination,
electrochemical cell – Daniel’s cell.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 1
Number of ECTS points: 7,5
32
Lecturer: Associate Professor Krešimir
Sanković
Aim of course: At the calculus level, to set
the physical bases for understanding the
structure of matter, behaviour of microscopic
and macroscopic systems under the action of
natural forces and force fields.
Prerequisites: Course content:
Quantities that describe motion, their
relations. Work, power, energy and potential.
Forces and force fields in nature. Motion of
particles and bodies in external force fields,
mass spectrographs with electric and
magnetic fields. Quanta in nature. Atomic
nucleus, nuclear reactions, spontaneous
radiation decay, application of radioisotopes.
Physics of the multitude of particles. Ideal
and real gases. Phases and phase diagrams.
Physics of liquids and solutions: pressure and
buoyancy, phenomena at the phase
boundaries. Heat and thermal disorder. First
law of thermodynamics.
Transport phenomena: Motion of particles,
bodies, charge and heat in the media with
internal resistance in gravitational,
centrifugal and electrostatic fields; diffusion,
osmosis and sedimentation, electric circuits,
electrophoresis. Generation, measurements
and observation of steady and alternating
currents and signals (oscilloscope). Electric
and magnetic properties of matter, origin of
electric and magnetic fields, energy in the
fields, electric dipole, interaction between
dipoles. Electromagnetic waves: polarization,
diffraction, interference, standing waves.
Sources: black body radiation, laser.
Interaction of electromagnetic waves with
matter: reflection, refraction, prism and
dispersion; simple optical instruments: lens
(magnifier), microscope, optical grading,
spectrometer elements; absorption,
photoelectric effect.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACEUTICAL BOTANY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 2
Number of ECTS points: 7.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Željan Maleš
Aim of course: Basics of general and special
botany, especially the study of medicinal
plants.
Prerequisite: Course content:
Definition and content of the course. Position
and importance of plants in comparison with
other organisms and their pharmaceutical
significance. Basic structural-functional
characteristics of plants: histology and
organography, morphology and anatomy of
vegetative and generative organs. Plant
growth, development and reproduction. Basic
notions of plant physiology and geobotany.
Principles of plant classification. A review of
major biosystematic plant groups. Studying
medicinal plants in the Pharmaceutical
Botanical Garden “Fran Kušan”.
Methods of botanical microscopic analysis and
morphological determination of plants.
Microscopic analysis of tissues of higher plants
and anatomical analysis of vegetative organs.
Morphological analysis of vegetative and
generative organs. Methods of higher plants
determination. Biosystematic analysis of some
important plant groups.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars,
laboratory and fieldwork
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian
SOCIOLOGY AND HEALTHCARE
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 2
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Živka Juričić
Aim of course: The aim of this course is to
train the future pharmacist for his/her
professional and social/supraindividual role
by offering him/her an insight into the wider
social context that encompasses human
health and illness.
Prerequisite: Course content:
Lectures:
Social concept and the context of health and
illness (the individual and social importance
of health, value driven substance of health;
changes in the meaning of health; illness as a
social construct; symptoms of illness as social
constructs; “disease”, “illness” and
“sickness”; how social defining of health and
illness can establish its credentials in relation
to natural sciences where the subject is
man). Philosophic origins and main
constitutive principles of biomedical paradigm
(biologism; positivism; pathologism,
mechanicism reductionalism; dualism of body
and soul; dualism of health and illness; theory
of specific aetiology of illness; dominant
status of biomedical paradigm in modern
society; “non-profitability” of biomedical
approach in healing the so-called illness of
modern civilization). Social role of the patient
33
(the role of the patient leads to commutation
of roles; patient’s rights; patient’s duties;
“good” and “bad” patient; illness as a
metaphor; illness as an identity; morbidity
and mortality transition; discourse on the
meaning and possibilities of sick-leaves in the
conditions of developed capitalism and
increasing “flexibilization” of the workforce).
Modern society and the “Health Hunt” (“the
culture of pain-killers”; the health
imperative; health as goods that can be
bought like any other merchandise at the
market; health becomes “the property of only
those people who have earned it”).
Medicalization and iatrogenesis (society
permeated by medicalization; social
iatrogenesis; clinical iatrogenesis; cultural
iatrogenesis; crisis of the biomedical
paradigm of health and illness). Lay
conceptualization of health (pain and its
psychological dimensions; pain as a bio-social
phenomenon; sociocultural variations and
expressions of pain; professional
acknowledgment of pain/symptoms). Health
Care (organization as a system; open system;
theory of action; power in the system of
executing health care; bureaucratization;
rationalization; negotiation; team work;
professional autonomy and the power of
health-care professional groups in the health
care system).
Seminars:
The life-style: sociocultural defining of the
patient’s behaviour (empiric research).
Differences in the perception of health in
relation to the socio-economic status (empiric
research). Dimensions of patient
stigmatization: HIV and cancer cases (empiric
research). Analysis of the status of anorexia
nervosa as a syndrome of Western culture
(empiric research). Discussion about pain: lay
explanatory models (empiric research).
Medicalization: cases of menopause and
dyslexia (empiric research). Sociodemographic characteristics of the patient as
determinants of patient satisfaction with
medical care (empiric research). Paternalism
and the patient’s autonomy (empiric
research).
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 1st and 2nd year
Semester: 2 and 3
Number of ECTS points: 7.5 + 6 = 13.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Svjetlana Luterotti,
Assistant Professor Suzana Inić
Aim of course: The course is aimed at
introducing the students to the theoretical
principles and importance of chemical
analysis and its application in chemical
identification, characterization, separation
and quantitative analysis.
Prerequisites:
To take the exam in Analytical Chemistry 1
students must have passed the exam in
General Chemistry with Stochiometry; to take
the exam in Analytical Chemistry 2 it is
necessary to pass Analytical Chemistry 1.
Course content:
Lectures:
The role of chemical analysis, analytical
process and methods, sample and sampling,
types of chemical reactions. Performance
characteristics of analytical procedures;
sensitivity, selectivity. Analytical application
of protolytic, complex-forming, redox and
luminescence reactions. Homogeneous,
heterogeneous and complex equilibrium in
chemical analysis, masking and demasking.
Theoretical principles of separations.
Principles and analytical application of
solvent extraction, ion exchange, methods on
capillary supports and chromatographic
methods. Basic principles of quantitative
analysis, errors in chemical analysis.
Principles of gravimetric analysis,
characteristics of precipitates and reagents
for precipitation, calculation of the result.
Titrimetric methods of analysis, standard
solutions, titration curves, methods of
precipitation, neutralimetric, redox,
complexometric titrations, non-aqueous
titrations.
Seminars:
Selective precipitation/dissolution.
Characteristic/selective reactions. Analytical
calculating of chemical equilibrium, simple,
complex. Data analysis and evaluation of the
result of the quantitative analysis.
Laboratory:
Systematic analysis and microidentification of
inorganic and organic ions. Chemical
identification of functional groups in organic
compounds. Treatment and analysis of the
solid sample. Separation of mixture of
cations/anions by selective
precipitation/dissolution, by ionic exchange
on the column and by solvent extraction.
Separation and identification of organic
compounds by thin layer chromatography.
Gravimetric analysis. Volumetric analysis
(precipitation, complexometric,
neutralimetric, redox).
34
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st and 2nd year
Semester: 2 and 3
Number of ECTS points: 7.5 + 6 = 13.5
Lecturers:, Assistant Professor Viktor Pilepić
Aim of course: The aim of the course should
be to acquire, to a reasonable extent, the
basic knowledge of physical chemistry as the
discipline that establishes and develops the
principles used in explanation and
interpretation of observations in other
branches of chemistry. The approach involves
fundamentals of modern physical chemistry
methods and instrumentation. Integrating
everything mentioned, students should be
able to participate in the relevant
interdisciplinary physical chemistry research
or analytical work in pharmacy and medicinal
biochemistry.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment: to enrol for the course Physical
Chemistry 2 students must have passed the
exam in Physics and have a certifed
attendance record for Physical Chemistry 1.
Exam: to take the exam in Physical Chemistry
1 students must have passed the exam in
General Chemistry with Stochiometry; to take
the exam in Physical Chemistry 2 it is
necessary to pass the exam in Physical
Chemistry 1 and Mathematics with Statistical
Analysis.
Course content:
Lectures:
Comprise discussion about the properties and
structure of physical chemistry systems and
analysis of the dynamics of transformations
starting from the basic insights into
thermodynamics, spectroscopy, kinetics,
electrochemistry and colloidal chemistry. The
approach, though standard in the catalogue of
pertaining items, should be adapted to and
correspond with the requirements
encountered in the graduate study course of
pharmacy and medicinal biochemistry. This
holds for the study of thermodynamic
concepts and laws and the corresponding
applications in pharmacy and medicinal
biochemistry, as well as for the fundamentals
of spectroscopy, kinetics, electrochemistry
and colloidal chemistry.
Seminars:
Following the above approach, seminar work
comprises solving numerical examples and
problems related to the content and
requirements of the lectures.
Laboratory:
Determination of the heats of chemical
reactions, coagulation of the colloidal system,
adsorption, determination of the relative
molar masses from cryoscopic measurements,
determination of reaction rate constants,
potentiometric titration, pH determination,
titration and applications, conductimetric
titration, amperometric titration, use and
measurement of optical rotation.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 2nd year
Semester: 3
Number of ECTS points: 11.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Olga Kronja, Full
Professor Valerije Vrček, Assistant Professor
Sandra Jurić, Assistant Professor Bernard
Denegri
Aim of course: The course aim is to teach
students, applying a mechanistic approach,
the properties and reactivity of basic organic
structures, basic strategies of organic
synthesis, and basic synthetic methods in a
laboratory.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment– passed examination in General
Chemistry and Stoichiometry course.
Exam: none.
Course content:
The fundamental thesis of the molecular
structure of organic compounds is introduced
first to enable students to better comprehend
the aim of the course, and to give them the
basis for understanding the theory and
laboratory practice. The subject matter is
distributed over the compounds that react
similarly (similar bond breaking and bond
forming processes). At the very beginning,
students are informed about the relation
between molecular structure and reactivity.
General features of organic reactions are
introduced with the group of carbonyl
compounds. Carbonyl groups are an integral
part of many (bio)organic compounds, which
makes the role of organic chemistry more
evident. These groups are polar and therefore
suitable for an extensive mechanistic study of
bond making/breaking processes. Also,
understanding of polar reactions involving
other groups of compounds. Besides
nucleophilic addition and substitution
reactions of carbonyl compounds, nucleophilic
substitution reactions at saturated carbon are
35
presented. Nucleophilic/electrophilic
properties of carbonyl compounds are
presented in the chemistry of alpha-carbanion
compounds, elimination reactions and
electrophilic additions are presented in the
chemistry of alkenes and alkynes, while
electrophilic substitutions are presented on
aromatic compounds. Polycyclic and
heterocyclic compounds are also covered,
while the strategy of organic synthesis is
considered at the end of the course.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 2nd year
Semester: 3
Number of ECTS points: 3.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Sanja Dabelić
Aim of course: Get students acquainted with
the molecular arsenal, structure, function,
and organisation of living matter. Recognise
the chemical logic of bioprocesses and gain
laboratory experience in studying
biomolecules.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Cell
Biology with Genetics; conditions for taking
an examination in this subject – passed
examination in General Chemistry with
Stochiometry
Course content:
Chemical elements of living matter.
Properties of water. C-compounds and
functional groups. Biological macromolecules:
directionality, modular architecture,
conformational dynamics, information,
complementariness, hierarchical organisation,
non-covalent interactions. Amino acids:
ionisation properties. Peptides. Proteins:
classification, four levels of structural
organization, the role of disulfide bridges,
solubility, sequencing. Nucleic acids
(nucleotides, structures of nucleic acids,
double helix, recombinant DNA). Lipids and
membranes (fatty acids, complex lipids,
structure and function of membranes).
Carbohydrates, glycolconjugates and
glycocalyx. Energetics of life (Metastability of
open system. Gibbs energy and energy
coupling. Group transfer potential and ATP).
Reversible and irreversible reactions.
Reduction potential. Gradients and
transmembrane trafficking. Enzyme catalysis
and controlled reaction rates (Transition state
and activation energy. Recognition and
catalytic sites: specificity and rate
enhancement. Coenzymes. Steady state
kinetics. Inhibition; alosteric effectors;
isoenzymes; covalent modifications;
nonprotein biocatalysts). Vitamins. Hormones.
Experimental study of specific biomolecular
properties and structure.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 1st and 2nd year
Semester: 1, 2, 3 and 4
Coordinator of practical education: Lecturer
Drago Vujević, PhD
Aim of course: Imparting information about
physical education for the well-being, work,
creating and adaptive capability necessary for
the human way of living.
Course content:
The course content developed on the basis of
the influence of physical education on
personality changes and treating the
individual as an integral bio-psychosocial
complex contains: basic program which is
obligatory for the 1st and 2nd year students
according to the following criteria - interest
and motivation of student in a specific
kinesiology area and level of motoric
information, sex, and financial means; extracurriculum activities – sport teams
representing the Faculty at University
championships.
Teaching manner: physical activites
Teaching language: Croatian
MICROBIOLOGY AND PARASITOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 2nd year
Semester: 4
Number of ECTS points: 8
Lecturers: Assistant Professor Ivan Kosalec,
Assistant Professor Maja Šegvić Klarić
Aim of course: The program covers the basics
of bacteriology, immunology, virusology and
parasitology. The objectives include: studying
morphological, physiological and biochemical
characteristics of microorganisms, antigen
structure, production and mechanism of
antibiotics activity, as well as infectivity,
immunological response and pathogenesis of
pathogen species of bacteria, fungi and
parasites.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in Cell Biology with
Genetics
36
Exam: none
Course content:
The basic course content includes taxonomy,
biology (physiology, biochemistry and
genetics of microorganisms), antibiosis
(production of antibiotics and mechanisms of
their action), immunology (cellular and
humeral immunity), pathogenic, virulent and
antigenic characteristics of aerobic and
anaerobic, Gram positive and Gram-negative
bacteria, mycoplasms, viruses and fungi, as
well as classification and life cycles of
parasites. Through lectures and seminars
students will learn about sterility control,
serological diagnostics, vaccines production
and characteristics, hospital infections,
prevention of professional diseases,
diagnostics and prevention of bacterial and
fungal infections.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian, teaching also
possible in English
PHYSIOLOGY AND HUMAN ANATOMY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 2st year
Semester: 4
Number of ECTS points: 9
Number of ECTS points: Lecturer: Associate
Professor Danica Galešić Ljubanović, Assistant
Professor Stela Bulimbašić
Aim of course: Anatomy and function of
tissues, organs and the entire body.
Explanation why anatomy and function are
connected and which regulatory mechanisms
sustain the normal body function.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in Cell Biology with
Genetics.
Exam: none.
Course content:
Body organization, nomenclature,
transmembrane traffic, membranous
receptors, membranous and action potentials,
main tissues, skin, skeletal system, basic
muscle anatomy, mechanism of muscle
contraction, heart and circulatory system,
blood, blood pressure, haematopoiesis, cell
proliferation factors, haemostasis, blood
groups, lymphatic system, basic immunology,
respiratory system, urinary system, urine,
digestive system, food digestion and
absorption, liver and pancreas anatomy and
function, regulation of body temperature,
vitamins, nervous system, neurotransmitters,
eye, ear, endocrine system, reproductive
system, pregnancy and lactation, basic
embryology.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 2nd year
Semester: 4
Number of ECTS points: 8.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Tihana Žanić
Grubišić, Full Professor Karmela Barišić, Full
Professor Lada Rumora
Aim of course: Introduction to the molecular
logic of biochemical reactions in living
organisms.
Program covers the synthesis and degradation
of biomacromolecules: proteins,
polysaccharides, lipids, nucleic acids. Special
emphasis is laid on the regulation and control
of metabolic reactions within the cell.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
Biological Chemistry course completed;
Exam: passed examination in Biological
Chemistry.
Course content:
Dynamic aspects of the structure and function
for special proteins: haemoglobin, myoglobin,
collagen, elastin, and extracellular matrix
proteins. Cell membranes in different tissues:
transport of ions, amino acids, and sugars.
Transducing and storing of metabolic energy basic concept and design. Glycolysis,
oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate, the
citric acid cycle. Cell bioenergetics, ATP
cycle, respiratory chain and oxidative
phosphorylation. Gluconeogenesis and
pentose monophosphate pathway. Glycogen
metabolism – glycogenesis and glycogenolysis
and hormone regulation. Lipid metabolism:
biosynthesis and degradation of triglycerides:
fatty acids:  - oxidation and biosynthesis,
glycerophosphatides, cholesterol and steroid
lipids. Amino acid degradation, urea cycle.
Biosynthesis of macromolecular precursors,
amino acids, hem, ribonucleotides,
deoxyribonucleotides. Information in
biological systems: DNA – genetic role,
structure, genome organisation,
chromosomes, genes. Organisation of DNA,
histones. DNA conformation. Replication and
reliability of the process. Mutations and
corrections. RNA and genetic message
translation. Synthesis and modification of
functional RNA molecules: mRNA and
transcription, t-RNA, activation and role in
protein synthesis, structure of ribosomes, rRNA. Genetic code and gene to protein
relation. Protein synthesis. Control of gene
37
expression in prokaryotes - Lac-operon and
Trp - operon. Chromosomes in eukaryotes and
control of gene expression. Introns and exons.
Integration of metabolism – global regulation
of biochemical processes within the cell –
control strategies.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study years 3rd year
Semester: 5
Number of ECTS points: 7.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Milan
Kujundžić, Assistant Professor Ivica Grgurević
Aim of course: The aim of the course is to
present the basics of modern
pathophysiology, starting from the cause of
disease, pathogenesis, clinical status, and
sometimes a short reference to therapy.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
Physiology and Human Anatomy course and
Microbiology with Parasitology course
completed.
Exam: passed examination in Physiology and
Human Anatomy.
Course content:
Basics of pathophysiology. Pathophysiology of
blood and blood-forming organs.
Pathophysiology of the immune system.
Pathophysiology of the kidney.
Pathophysiology of the gastroenterological
system. Pathophysiology of the cardiovascular
system. Pathophysiology of the respiratory
system. Pathophysiology of endocrine glands.
Pathophysiology of metabolism disorders.
Major pathophysiological processes in the
nervous system. Basics of pathology. Basics of
working with patients and conducting clinical
interviews.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian, teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACOGNOSY 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 2nd and 3rd year
Semester: 4 and 5
Number of ECTS points: 7.5 + 6 = 13.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Sanda VladimirKnežević, Associate Professor Marijana Zovko
Končić
Aim of course: Acquisition of knowledge of
the chemistry of biologically active
substances of medicinal plant species.
Understanding of the biogenesis and activity
of substances and the use of drugs, i.e.,
isolated compounds. Acquisition of knowledge
about the most important drugs according to
chemical systematics.
Prerequisites:
Pharmacognosy I: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Pharmaceutical Botany; conditions for taking
an examination in this subject – passed
examination in Analitical Chemistry I.
Pharmacognosy II: enrolment requirements
for this subject – Pharmacognosy I course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Pharmacognosy I.
Course content:
Lectures:
Biologically active substances (primary and
secondary metabolism): characteristics,
biosynthesis, distribution in the plant word,
chemical and physical qualities; methods of
demonstration and determination of the
contents of biologically active substances in
drugs. Groups of biologically active
substances: monosaccharides,
polysaccharides, lipids, sterols (phytosterols),
sesquiterpenes, sesquiterpenic lactones,
iridoids, terpenes, essential oils, phenolic
acid, phenolic heterosides, flavonoids,
coumarins, antocyanins (antocyanodins,
proantocyanidins), cyanogenic heterosides,
thioheterosides, anthracenic derivates,
tannins, saponins, cardiotonic heterosides,
alkaloids.
According to the chemical systematics of
drugs, the following are treated: drugs with
inorganic compounds, drugs with inulin, drugs
with hemicellulose, drugs with mucous, fats,
oils, waxes, drugs with essential oils, resin
and balms, drugs with flavonoids, saponins,
coumarins, antraglycosides, cardiotonic
glycosides, drugs with sulphur (thioethers and
thioheterosides), drugs with tannins, drugs
with alkaloids. Animal drugs.
Laboratory:
Qualitative and quantitative analyses of
biologically active substances in the drugs are
carried out ( Ph.Eur.IV): determination of the
essential oil content, testing the quality of
essential oil components, identification of
phenol glycoside and phenol acids,
determination of arbutin and methylarbutin
contents, identification of anthracenic
compounds, determination of anthracenic
compounds contents, identification of
tannins, determination of tannins contents,
determination of alkaloids of, identification
of flavonoids and determination of the
38
contents of flavonoids. Practicals also involve
macroscopic and microscopic investigations of
the drugs, histochemical responses to given
groups of active substances in drugs and
analysis of tea mixtures (species).
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5 and 6
Number of ECTS points: 9 + 5 = 14
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Zrinka Rajić
Džolić, Full Professor Branka Zorc
Aim of course: Lectures will be focused on
chemical and stereochemical features of drug
substances. Special attention will be paid to
physicochemical properties, pharmacological
activity, mechanism of action and
pharmacokinetic properties of each
therapeutic group. Each drug will be
presented by its chemical and generic name,
structure and synthesis. Emphasis will be laid
on application, destiny in human body,
distribution, excretion, side effects,
tolerance and drug-drug interactions.
Prerequisites:
Medicinal Chemistry 1: enrolment
requirements for this subject – passed
examination in Organic Chemistry; conditions
for taking an examination in this subject –
none.
Medicinal Chemistry 2: enrolment
requirements for this subject – Medicinal
Chemistry 1 course completed; conditions for
taking an examination in this subject – passed
examination in Medicinal Chemistry 1.
Course content:
Drugs acting on the gastrointestinal tract
(Acids, Antiacids, H2-Antihistamines,
Adsorbents, Laxatives), Alkaloses, Acidoses.
Antidotes. Calcium and Calcium Salts. Iron
and Iron Salts. Antipruritics. Plasma
Expanders (Dextran, Hydroxyethyl starch,
Gelatine). Diagnostics. Antiseptics, Alcohols.
Drugs for the treatment of urinary infections
(Nitrofuran Derivatives, Nalidixic Acid).
Quinolines and Analogues (Gyrase Inhibitors).
Cytostatics (Alcylating Agents,
Antimetabolites, Cyclophosphamide,
Azathioprine, Cytostatically Active
Antibiotics, Hormones and Hormone
Antagonists, Miscellaneous Cytostatics,
Radioactive Isotopes). Antiviral Drugs
(Amantadine, Tromantadine, Antimetabolites,
Interferon). Sulphonamides, Sulphones.
Antibiotics: β-Lactam Antibiotics (Penicillins,
Cephalosporins, Monobactams,
Carbapenems), Chloramphenicol,
Tetracyclines, Aminoglycosides (Streptomycin
group, Neomycin group, KanamycinGentamycin group, Spectinomycin),
Lincosamides (Lincomycin, Clindamycin),
Macrolides (Erytromycin group,
Azithromycin), Polypeptide Antibiotics
(Bacitracin, Polymyxin B, Colistin-Polymyxin
E, Tyrothricin), Glycopeptides (Vancomycin,
Teicoplanin). Tuberculostatics (Primary Drug:
Isoniazid, Rifampicin, Ethambutol; Second
Drug: Protionamid, p-Aminosalicylic Acid-PAS,
Cycloserine, Capreomycin). Antifungal Drugs.
Antiprotozoics (Cestodes, Nematodes,
Trematodes). Anthelmintics. Antimalarial
Drugs (Quinine, Quinidine and Derivatives,
Proguanil, Pyrimethamine). Drugs affecting
the central nervous system: General
anesthetics, Local anesthetics, Hypnotics,
Analgesics (+ Anti-inflammatory drugs),
Antiepileptics, Analeptics, Antiparkinsonian
drugs, Psychoactive drugs. Drugs affecting the
peripheral nervous system:
Sympathomimetics, Sympatholytics, Para
sympathomimetics, Spasmolytics, Muscle
relaxants, Drugs affecting ganglia.
Antianginals. Antihypertensive drugs. Cardiac
glycosides. Antiarrhythmics. Lipid regulating
agents. Diuretics. Hormones and hormone
antagonists. Antihistamines. Vitamins.
Anticoagulants. Prostaglandins. Uricosuric
drugs. Antiemetics. Immunosuppressants.
Antipsoriatic drugs. Expectorants.
Seminars:
Theoretical preparation for laboratory work;
detailed overview of specific drug substances
from Medicinal Chemistry (physicochemical
properties, structure, stereochemistry,
synthesis, pharmacological effect and adverse
effects, doses, application routes, drugs on
the market, drug destiny in human body,
structural analogues). Active participation of
students in seminars.
Laboratory:
Synthesis, isolation, purification of specific
drug substances from Medicinal Chemistry.
Selected examples: acetylsalicylic acid,
ascorbic acid, azithromycin, bismuth
subgallate, dicoumarol, phenytoin,
hydrochlorothiazide, calcium carbonate,
caffeine, sodium iodide, nicotinamide,
pyridoxine, sulphafurazole.
Literature:
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
39
PHARMACEUTICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5
Number of ECTS points: 3.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Jelena FilipovićGrčić, Associate Professor Anita Hafner
Aim of course: The course concerns the
application of basic pharmaceutical sciences
in the understanding of drug discovery and
development.
Prerequisite:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in Physical Chemistry 2.
Pharmaceutics II: none.
Course content:
Lectures will centre on physical properties of
materials and how these can affect dosage
forms of different types. Students will be
encouraged to consider the ways in which
physicochemical information can be obtained
and how it can be used to design better
products. The course concludes with
discussions on drug product stability, in-depth
biopharmaceutics, followed by an
introduction to pharmacokinetics.
The course will focus on: Powder systems
(solids) - the importance of particle size,
granulation, particle size analysis, surface
area measurement. Implications of a drug
characteristics on the development of a
suitable drug delivery system. Colligative
properties of solutions in pharmaceutical
systems. Interfacial phenomena in the
development of pharmaceutical products.
Disperse system phenomena in the
development of pharmaceutical products.
Rheological principles in the development of
pharmaceutical products. Modes of drug
degradation, and methods to calculate the
rate of drug degradation. Methods of
stabilization of drug products, and estimation
of products shelf life. Evaluation and
utilization of physical and chemical data on
drugs and vehicles for the selection and
appropriate preparation of dosage forms.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOPHARMACY WITH PHARMACOKINETICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturers: Full Professor Jelena FilipovićGrčić, Associate Professor Anita Hafner
Aim of course: The course concerns
physiological processes responsible for the
absorption, distribution and elimination of
drugs in drug formulations.
Prerequisite:
Enrolment requirements for this subject:
Pharmaceutics course completed
Exam: passed examination in Pharmaceutics
Course content:
Factors affecting the Absorption, Distribution,
Metabolism and Excretion of drugs in various
dosage forms administered by different routes
will be discussed. Drawing valid, objective
conclusions from tabulated and graphic data
obtained from student laboratory exercises,
lecture material, or pharmaceutical
literature. Computer based training software
“The Modern Biopharmaceutics“ will be used
to provide a modern visual presentation of
information and calculations.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY WITH GENETIC
ENGINEERING
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 6
Lecturers: Associate Professor Gordana
Maravić Vlahoviček, Full Professor Gordan
Lauc
Aim of course: To introduce students to the
theoretical basis and practical applications of
molecular biology and genetic engineering.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Biochemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Microbiology with
Parasitology.
Course content:
Organization and sequences of cell genomes:
genome size, non-coding DNA, chromosome
organization. Maintenance and
rearrangements of genomic DNA: DNA damage
and repair, SOS response, site specific
recombination, mobile genetic elements.
Methods in molecular biology: PCR, DNA
sequencing, SSCP, FISH, DNA microchip,
Southern, Northern and Western blot, ELISA.
Recombinant DNA technology: isolation and
labelling of nucleic acids, enzymes, vectors
and cloning strategies, recombinant vector
construction, introducing DNA into host cell,
production of recombinant proteins, gene
libraries, mutagenesis, gene inactivation,
anti-sense DNA and RNA. Advanced genetic
engineering technologies: transgenic plants
40
and animals, cloning of entire organisms,
GMO, transgenic technology in functional
genomics, development of new drugs and
therapies. Protein sorting and transport:
secretory pathway, signal sequences,
endoplasmic reticulum, protein folding and
processing, Golgi apparatus, vesicular
transport, lysosomes. Cytoskeleton and cell
movement: structure and organization of
cytoskeletal fibres, cell movement. Cell
cycle: phases, check points, regulation and
regulatory molecules of cell cycle, mitosis,
meiosis and fertilization, stem cells and
maintenance of mature tissue. Cell signalling:
types of signal molecules and receptors,
signal pathways, regulation of apoptosis.
Viruses: genetic material, size, morphology,
classification, replication, viroids, prions.
Cancer: development and causes of cancer,
tumour viruses, oncogenes and tumour
suppressor genes, applications of molecular
biology to cancer prevention and treatment.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
NUTRITIONAL BIOCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturers: Full Professor Irena VedrinaDragojević
Aim of course: Introduction to nutritive
importance, interactions and bioavailability
of food ingredients; influence of diet on
biochemical assays to evaluate nutritive- and
health-status of the organism.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Biochemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Basics of healthy nutrition. Protein and amino
acid requirements, bioavailability, enzyme
inhibitors, essential amino acid blocking
mechanisms and biological activation of
reaction products, limiting amino acid
deficiency correction, biological value of
proteins and biochemical parameters of
nutritive status, protein malnutrition,
relations between nutritive and inflammatory
factors. Determination of biochemical
parameters. Acute-phase reactants.
Prognostic inflammatory nutritive index PINI.
Carbohydrates – significance, requirements,
sources. Physiological importance of dietary
fibers; influence on glycaemic index. Lipids –
requirements, composition and origins,
biochemical importance of essential fatty
acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Pathophysiological disorders due to deficiency
in nutrition. Advantages of Mediterranean
nutrition. Minerals; macro- and traceelements; biochemical functions, sources,
requirements, bioavailability, accumulation,
toxicity. Vitamins; alimentary sources,
biotransformations, transport mechanisms,
bioavailability, biochemical functions.
Biochemical parameters for vitamin status,
avitaminosis, hyper- and hypovitaminosis
assessments. Target populations. Biochemical
assays for nutritive and health-status
determinations. Influence of diet and food
ingredients on the results of biochemical
assays.
Laboratory: Introduction to the principles and
methods of determining biologically active
and toxic components of foods. Determination
of vitamins and provitamins - carotenes,
ascorbic acid, thiamine, riboflavin.
Determination of amino acids in food tryptophan. Determination of toxic metals in
water and biological samples - mercury.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY WITH
HAEMATOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 6
Lecturers: FullProfessor József Petrik,
Associate Professor Roberta Petlevski
Aim of course: The curriculum of clinical
biochemistry with hematology covers the
fundamentals of chemical, biochemical and
biological procedures for examining the
composition of biological fluids and tissues,
and morphological characteristics of blood
cells to identify changes occurring during
physiological and pathological processes in
human body.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Biochemistry and Patophysiology and
Pathology course completed; conditions for
taking an examination in this subject – passed
examination in Physiology and Human
Anatomy.
Course content:
Fundamentals of the work in a medical
biochemistry laboratory: present state and
prospects of clinical biochemistry; Test
materials, measures and units, techniques,
41
instruments and automation; Work control,
methods of determination, reference
intervals, analytical interferences and
biologic effects of drugs. Water, electrolytes
and microelements: distribution and
regulation of water and electrolytes in body
fluids, disorders, methods. Acid-base balance:
definitions and parameters of acid-base
balance, mechanisms of acid-base balance
maintenance, disorders, methods of
determination. Qualitative and quantitative
urine analyses. Proteins: serum proteins –
formation, degradation, function, protein
types – methods, disorders. Nitrogen
metabolites: methods of determination and
disorders. Haemoglobin and metabolites:
methods of determination and disorders.
Carbohydrates: hormone regulation and
disorders in glucose metabolism, acute and
chronic complications, methods of
determination. Lipids and lipoproteins:
metabolism and hormone regulation, methods
of determination of lipid compounds and
lipoproteins, congenital and acquired
disorders. Enzymes: serum enzymes, organ
specific enzymes, isoenzymes, methods of
determination of enzyme catalytic
concentrations. Introduction into
haematology: red blood cell, leukocyte and
platelet function. Impairments and diseases
of red blood cells, granulocytes, monocytes,
lymphocytes and platelets.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
SELECTED METHODS OF INSTRUMENTAL
ANALYSIS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3nd year
Semester: 6.
Number of ECTS points: 2,5
Lecturers: Full Professor Svjetlana Luterotti
Aim of course: The course aim is to teach the
basic principles of spectroscopic,
electrochemical and thermal methods of
analysis as well as their application.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in Analytical Chemistry 2.
Exam: none.
Course content:
Lectures:
Theory and application of spectroscopic,
electrochemical and thermal methods of
analysis in the general analytical and modern
medical practice. Spectroscopic methods,
introduction, UV-Vis spectrophotometry,
atomic-absorption (emission) spectroscopy.
Electrochemical methods, introduction,
electrogravimetry, ion-selective electrodes.
Thermal methods, introduction,
thermogravimetry, differential scanning
calorimetry.
Laboratory:
Quantitative analyses of inorganic/organic
analytes in simple samples, pharmaceutical or
complex biological samples by the use of:
electrogravimetry, potentiometric titration,
UV-Vis spectrophotometry, atomic-absorption
(emission) spectroscopy, differential scanning
calorimetry.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY METHODS IN
BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3nd year
Semester: 5.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Assistant Professor Viktor Pilepić
Aim of course: The aim of the course is an
advanced approach to physical chemistry and
its methods starting from the model problem
of the interaction of vitamin C and a toxin in
solution and a colloidal system. The approach
integrates applications of kinetic and
thermodynamic methods and spectroscopic
methods including UV, IR, NMR and ESR
techniques.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Physical
Chemistry 2; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Lectures:
An advanced course of the methods in
physical chemistry involving thermodynamic
and kinetic methods, UV, IR, NMR and ESR
spectroscopies. Basic approach to the study of
reaction mechanisms.
Laboratory:
A model exercise that integrates application
of all the mentioned physical chemistry
methods and techniques to investigate the
interaction of vitamin C with a toxin in
solution and in a colloidal system.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3nd year
Semester: 5.
42
Number of ECTS points: 1,5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Dubravka Vitali
Čepo
Aim of course: Introduction to health ecology
as a part of ecological sciences, endangered
environmental elements and human
influence. Dependence of population on the
impact of environmental factors on health.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Definition of ecology, classification,
terminology. Concept of sustainable
development. Food chain contaminants –
influence on human health. Health aspects of
ecology. Ecological concepts of health.
Ecological toxicants and risk assessments.
Health criteria: primary and secondary
standards. Environmental factors and health.
Physical factors (micro- and macroclimatic),
mechanical energy (noise, vibrations),
radiation energy (ionic and nonionic
radiation). Chemical environmental factors:
metals and non-metals. Heavy metals (lead,
cadmium, mercury). Microelements as
contaminants. Agents used in agriculture and
stock breeding as food chain contaminants –
residues of pesticides and herbicides,
antibiotics, hormones and veterinary
preparations. Food additives and their
influence on health. Impact of technological
processes, processing conditions and storage
on food quality (biogenic amines,
mycotoxins). Polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons and nitrosamines – development
in natural processes and through human
impact. Consumer goods as potential hazard
to human health (dishes, packaging as
integral part of foods, toys, cosmetics,
cleaning agents). Phthalates (vinyl-softeners),
use (toys, medical equipment) –
cancerogenity, toxicity, human exposure, risk
assessments. Carcinogens in nutrition and
professional environment. Silicosis,
asbestosis, skin cancer. Smoking and cancer.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
HISTORY OF PHARMACY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3st year
Semester: 6.
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Suzana Inić
Aim of course: By getting to know the history
of knowledge in the natural sciences that
have been of extreme importance for the
development of pharmacy, students will gain
insight into how significant the ways of
discovering natural, physical, and chemical
laws were for the development of
pharmacology through the centuries. An
understanding of the development of the
natural sciences and the importance of their
theories and principles in the determination
of the properties, analysis, and synthesis of
newly discovered compounds will offer insight
into the great significance of interdisciplinary
research for the study of nature in the past
and in the present as well.
Prerequisite: none.
Course content:
The history of natural science, which is of the
utmost importance for the development of
pharmacology, is intimately linked to the
development of civilization in general. This
course covers the discoveries of the first
written prescriptions (clay tablets, donkey
skin, papyrus) for the distillation of plants,
the first substances used for healing, and the
principle of similia similibus curatur is
interpreted with the beginnings of
organotherapy in the time of the first
civilizations. The accomplishments of the
Babylonians, Assyrians, and Sumerions in
healing with plants. The significance of Ebers’
papyrus for Egyptian pharmacy. The
importance of Greek natural philosophy:
Aristotle’s and Theophrastus’ systematization
of plants, Hippocrates’ foundation of
humorism, based on four elements (humors)
and healing via four pharmacological groups.
The contribution of Alexandrian science,
especially with respect to polypharmacy
(miridatium and theriac). Along with the
contributions of Erasistratus, Celsius, and
Galen, particular attention is given to
Dioscurides (1st century), the author of the
first pharmacopeia, which was printed during
the Renaissance (1478) and which was the
basis of European pharmacopeias. After a
short overview of Indian, Chinese, Arabic, and
finally European alchemy, it will be shown
how alchemical preparations (herbal-metal,
metal-metal) and new substances were used
in medical treatment. After the development
of monasterial pharmacy, the Salernitan
Medical School (later University) was founded.
This was the first time that pharmacy was
treated as a separate field of study from
medicine. The “Salernitan Edict” (1240) will
be interpreted. Through the contribution of
the renaissance scholars, particularly
Paracelsus, Agricola, Libavius, van Helmont,
and Glauber, as well as the establishment of
iatrochemistry, students will learn about the
importance of the introduction of minerals
(orally) to medical treatment. During the
Enlightenment, the course will focus on the
43
importance of phlogiston theory in the
discovery of gases, new elements, and
compounds. The toppling of the vitalist
theory (vis vitalis, 1828) and the development
of organic chemistry and biochemistry marked
the beginning of the “golden age of
pharmacy”. Attention is given to ways of
discovering principles of analysis and
synthesis of organic-chemical and natural
compounds, and their significance in the
preparation of medicines. Finally, the course
will cover the meaning of words and symbols
that are of importance to the history of
pharmacy (Far-Maki, Hygieia, Panacea, Asu,
Asipu, Asklepie, Asklepiadi, arcane, hospital,
iatrika, infirmary, etc.) The course also
includes a short overview of the history of
Croatian pharmacy.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
SELECTED TOPICS FROM APPLIED
PSYCHOLOGY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Aim of course: Inform students about several
fields of applied psychology to get an insight
into basic areas of applied psychology, learn
what psychologists do and how they can
collaborate with them in their future
professional work.
Prerequisites: none.
Course content:
Psychology of the individual: individual
differences and abilities; emotions and
emotional intelligence; perception and states
of consciousness, self-esteem development,
evolutionary interpretation of sexual
differences, parenthood and parenting styles.
Psychology and education: factors that affect
learning and approaches to learning;
overcoming learning difficulties; lifelong
learning.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian
SPECTROSCOPIC IDENTIFICATION OF
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Olga Kronja
Aim of course: Understanding of the basis of
spectroscopic methods (NMR, IR, CD, UV-VIS,
MS) and practical use of these instrumental
techniques in solving the structural and
dynamic properties of bioactive compounds
(i.e. steroids, vitamins, drugs).
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Organic
Chemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Combined application of spectroscopic
methods in organic chemistry and
biochemistry is an important approach in
characterization of structure and dynamic
properties of (bio)organic compounds.
Fundamentals and practical use of mass
spectrometry, IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR
spectroscopy in detection of (bio)organic
compounds, in determining their structures
and their rearrangment pathways, and in
defining their portion in complex mixtures
and biological materials (blood, urine). The
nature of interaction of electromagnetic
radiation with molecules will be explained in
more details which will enable students to
apply spectroscopic methods in other region
of electromagnetic spectrum (microwaves,
vacuum-UV). Along with identification and
characterization of (bio)organic compounds,
the use of especially NMR spectroscopy in
analyzing of dynamic processes (i.e.
conformation change, rearrangements) will
be presented. Spectroscopic methods enable
to accumulate and analyze kinetic parameters
which gives better insight into mechanism of
these processes. This is important for
understanding of (bio)transformation of
organic compounds.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACY INFORMATICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Renata Jurišić
Grubešić, PhD
Aim of course: Teach students about
medicines so that they can provide correct
information in that field. Course program
covers topics on medicines that students need
for provision of adequate drug information to
patients, general public and all people
involved in providing health care.
Prerequisite: none
44
Course content:
Pharmacists' role and tasks in the modern
health care system. Standardization in health
informatics; Good Pharmacy Practice.
Official, independent and commercial sources
of drug information. Primary, secondary and
tertiary sources of drug information. Internet
in pharmaceutical and medical sciences and
professions; Scientific information in health
care. Information systems in health care;
Medical classifications; information about
medicines. Information systems in pharmacy;
Special programs for pharmacy business; Eprescriptions. Description of terms and
concepts essential for adequate information
on medicines. Goals of information
technology and automation in health care.
Extention of the scope of pharmacy practice –
extra services.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian
METALLOPROTEINS – STRUCTURE AND
MECHANISM
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6.
Number of ECTS points: 2
Lecturers: Associate Professor Mario
Gabričević
Aim of course: To introduce different
mechanisms (oxido-reductive, transport and
complexation) of the reactions of
metalloproteins and to demonstrate the
complexity of their reactions (within
seminars).
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Biochemistry and General Chemistry and
Stoichiometry.
Course content:
It is a problem-oriented course. Students
should acquire knowledge about different
types of metalloproteins and their role in
living organisms. Also, different methods of
metalloproteins research will be introduced in
lectures. Students will learn about
Fluorescence, UV-Vis and Stopped-flow/Rapid
Scan Spectrophotometry and use of kinetic
and thermodynamic data for specific
problems in the mechanisms of
metalloproteins.
Each student will have to prepare a
presentation on a particular metalloprotein,
focused on structure and mechanism. The
presentation will have to cover the last 3-4
years of scientific research on the chosen
metalloprotein and is expected to last at
least half-an-hour.
In the laboratory, students will run
experiments of the complexation of Fe(III) ion
with metalloprotein transferrin using the
Stopped-flow/RapidScan UV-Vis and Stoppedflow/RapidScan Fluorescence
Spectrophotometry as complementary
methods. They will investigate the influence
of temperature, pH, ionic strength,
concentration of reactants and concentration
of exogenous anions (HCO3-, H2PO4-, citrate,
NTA, etc.) on the rate of complexation on Cand N-terminal ends of transferrin. Based on
the results, they will propose the mechanism
of complexation.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MODERN BIOCHEMICAL TECHNIQUES
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Assistant Professor Sanja Dabelić,
Associate Professor Sandra Šupraha Goreta
Aim of course: Learn the theoretical bases,
applications and limitations of modern
biochemical and molecular-biological
methods and procedures, understand the
principles of modern biochemical and
molecular-biological procedures and methods,
learn how to select the appropriate method
for collecting experimental data, know the
scope and limitations of the selected
bioanalytical method, interpret data obtained
using the selected bioanalytical method.
Conditions:
Enrolment conditions: passed exam in
Biological Chemistry and a certified
attendance record of Biochemistry
Exam conditions: passed exam in Analytical
Chemistry II and Biochemistry
Course contents:
Analysis and quantification of biomolecules,
Sources and preparation of biological
material/Cell and tissue cultures.
Sedimentation methods. Chromatographic
methods. Electrophoretic methods.
Electrochemical methods. Immunochemical
methods. Modern methods of DNA analysis.
Spectroscopic methods. Result analysis and
presentation. Bioanalytical approach from the
aspect of diagnostics, research and pharmacy.
Teaching methods: theoretical, problem
solving and practical
Grading methods: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching in
English is possible.
45
PHARMACOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 10.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Lidija BachRojecky, PhD
Aim of course: Acquiring knowledge of
interactions between drugs and human body.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
Medicinal Chemistry 2 and Molecular Biology
with Genetics courses completed, passed
examination in Pathophysiology and
PathologyI; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Mecicinal Chemistry 2 and
Biochemistry.
Course content:
Students gain knowledge of general and special
pharmacology for all groups of drugs, systematized
according to the anatomical-therapeuticalchemical classification (ATC-classification). Drug
behaviour in the body (pharmacokinetics) and
general principles of drug actions
(pharmacodynamics) for more than a thousand
registered drugs in Croatia. General principles of
pharmacology include: 1. the main principles of
pharmacokinetics - characteristics of drugs for
local and systemic application, passage through
cell membranes, absorption from the
gastrointestinal system and after parenteral
application, distribution, bioavailability,
metabolism and elimination; 2. general principles
of pharmacodynamic drug action, molecular
mechanisms, receptors, neurotransmitters and
factors affecting drug actions. Special
pharmacology includes knowledge of drugs from
the following fields: pharmacology of the
gastrointestinal tract (drugs for peptic ulcus,
laxatives, antidiarrheal agents, antiemetics,
anorexics, spasmolytics, antiflatulents, propulsives
and digestives); pharmacology of the
cardiovascular system (drugs acting on the heart,
antihypertensives - diuretics, Ca-channel blockers,
inhibitors of angiotensin system and -blockers,
anti-dysrhythmic drugs, coronary vasodilators,
hypolipemics); pharmacology of the haemopoietic
system (antianemics, anticoagulants, fibrinolytics
and erythropoietins); pharmacology of the
autonomic nervous system (drugs acting on
cholinergic and adrenergic systems), and
pharmacology of the central nervous system
(sedatives-hypnotics, anaesthetics, antipsychotics,
antidepressants, antiparkinsonics, antiepileptics
and anxiolytics); drugs for pain treatments and
palliative care (opioid and nonopioid analgetics),
migraine treatment, antipyretics, antiinflammatory
drugs; drugs for bone and muscle systems
(antirheumatics, diphosphonates, etc.);
glucocorticoids, interferons, immunosuppressants
and antialergics; pharmacology of the respiratory
system (antiasthmatics, drugs for other obstructive
pulmonary diseases, antitussics and expectorants).
Antimicrobic drugs (antibiotics, antivirotics,
antimycotics, antituberculotics, antiprotosoics and
anthelmintics); cytostatics; hormonal therapeutics
(contraceptives, inhibitors of prolactine, androgens
and anti-androgens, estrogens, progestagens,
gonadotropins, drugs for thyroid disease
treatment, glucagon, calcitonin);
immunostimulants, immunoserums,
immunoglobulins; ophthalmics and otologics as well
as dermatologic drugs (for acne, psoriasis, sun
protection etc.). Drugs of abuse and treatment
possibilities.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
DRUG FORMULATION
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 9
Lecturer: Associate Professor Mario Jug, PhD,
Assistant Professor Željka Vanić
Aim of course: The aim of the course is to
learn about traditional and novel
pharmaceutical dosage forms such as drug
delivery systems. The course covers general
considerations in dosage form design relating
to the formulation, manufacture, stability
and effectiveness of pharmaceutical dosage
forms. Importance of excipients in
pharmaceutical formulations, correct
administration of the drug, stability and
bioavailability of the active principle.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
Biopharmacy with Pharmacokinetics course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination of Biopharmacy with
Pharmacokinetics.
Course content:
Historical aspects and general considerations
in dosage form design, routes of drug
administration. Pharmaceutical excipients
(flavouring, sweetening colouring agents,
preservatives, antioxidants). Sterilisation
(heat, radiation, gaseous and filtration
sterilisations, sterilisation selection and
control). Extracts, extraction procedures and
formulations (tinctures, extracts, decoctions,
infusions, plant powders). Liquid dosage
forms, solutions (solvents, solubilisation,
46
isotonicity, pH control, non-aqueous
solutions, stability, types of preparations,
formulations, manufacture). Sterile dosage
forms – parenteral products, injections
(routes of administration, formulation,
quality assurance, stability packaging).
Intravenous fluids, intravenous admixtures
(routes of administration, formulation,
quality assurance, stability, packaging).
Ophthalmic preparations, eye drops,
ophthalmic solutions, suspensions, ointments,
inserts (preparation, sterilisation,
characteristics, ophthalmic preparations for
OTC use). Nasal and ear products, enemas,
lotions, liniments (formulations,
characteristics). Disperse systems –
suspensions (flocculation and deflocculation,
particle size control, wetting agents, viscosity
modifiers, stability, formulations). Emulsions
(emulsion consistency, stability, emulsifying
agents, formulations). Topical preparations –
skin transport, penetration routes,
percutaneous absorption, vehicles,
formulation (ointments, creams, pastes, gels,
aerosols, patches, transdermal patches,
soaps). Solid dosage forms – suppositories and
pessaries (absorption of drugs, vehicle,
formulations). Powders and granules – bulk
powders, divided powders (granules),
powders for injecting and syrups, dusting
powders (formulation). Capsules – hard and
soft gelatine capsules (filing, formulation,
contents). Therapeutic aerosols
(physicochemical properties, size distribution,
deposition, formulation, propellants, testing).
Tablets – types, excipients, formulation,
granulation methods, tableting and machines,
tablet characteristics, dissolution. Coating,
film coated tablets, sugar coated tablets,
modified-release film coating, coating
procedures. Modified release drug delivery –
parenteral dosage forms, solid dosage forms.
Packaging technology – materials, closures,
filing, labelling, quality control.
Laboratory:
Compounding of different dosage forms
(liquid, semisolid, and solid dosage forms).
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACEUTICAL ANALYSIS
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 10,5
Lecturer: Full Professor Biljana Nigović
Aim of course: To explain the principles of
analytics and quality control of medicines and
to demonstrate the development of the
analysis of pharmaceutical samples according
to the European Pharmacopoeia methodology.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject MedicinalChemistry 2 course completed,
passed examination in Analytical Chemistry 2;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in Medicinal
Chemistry 2.
Course content:
Quality of pharmaceutical products and
attributive and measurable properties of
substances. Description, meaning and purpose
of pharmacopoeia. Axioms in analytics of
medicines, including pharmacopoeial
regulation, reagents and reference
substances. Pharmacopoeial methods:
identification, testing impurities and assay of
drugs. Types and properties of
pharmaceutical samples: analytical profile of
monographs. Application of spectroscopic
(AES, AAS, ICP, X-ray fluorescence
spectrometry, UV-visible, fluorimetry, IR,
NIR, Raman spectrometry, NMR, MS) and
thermoanalytical methods in analyses of
pharmaceutical samples; also
chromatographic (HPLC, GC, TLC, sizeexclusion, SFC) and electrophoretic (CE)
techniques, including separation and
detection by mass spectrometer. Pre-analysis
purification and preparation of samples by
extractions on liquid and solid matrices.
Monographs on chiral substances that describe
enantiomeric separations and testing purity,
apply polarimetry and circular dichroism,
analysis of radiopharmaceutical preparations
and medicinal gasses. Measuring constants of
pharmaceutical substances. Development and
validation of analytical methods for drug
substances. Experimental design and
optimization of drug assay methods.
Evaluating analytical data. Problems of
quality assurance and quality control and
good analytical practice. Immuno-assays
analysis. Testing of containers for
pharmaceutical use. Analysis of low level drug
analytes. Practical aspects of pharmaceutical
analysis and biopharmaceutical analysis, e.g.,
analysis of drugs and their degradation
products in drug formulations or analysis of
drugs and their metabolites in biological
matrices. Laboratory work. Calculations in
analytics and drug quality control.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
47
ANALYTICAL TOXICOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturers: Associate Professor Irena Žuntar,
PhD
Aim of course: Students will be introduced to
various branches of modern toxicology. Actual
problems of toxic materials in use and also
connected with environmental pollution and
work place will be presented. Also, the
purpose is to point out the importance of
analytical toxicology in medical clinical
practice and human health protection.
Prerequisite:
Enrolment requirements for this subject Pharmacology course completed; conditions
for taking an examination in this subject –
none.
Course content:
Basic knowledge of toxicology, including all
kinds of damaging effects (short- and longterm), basic toxicokinetics, clinical
toxicology, ecotoxicology, toxogenetics,
toxinology, toxicology at work places,
regulatory toxicology, toxicology of frequent
poisons, computer simulation of various
processes and data basis construction.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
IMMUNOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4thear
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 25
Lecturer: Full Professor Jerka Dumić
Aim of course: The course is intended to
provide important and recent knowledge of
cellular and molecular immunology.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Pharmacology course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Clinical Biochemistry
withbHematology
Course content:
Overview of basic immunology: organization
of the immune system-lymphoid organs, cells,
communicating molecules (cytokines,
chemokines, adhesion molecules),
hystocompatibility genes and antigens.
Antigen-presenting cells (APC) and antigen
presentation. Innate immunity: specific
receptors and their "molecular recognition
patterns". Adaptive immunity-specific
receptors, antigens, humoral and cellular
immunity, regulation of the immune
response. Overview of clinical immunology:
immunodeficiency, autoimmunity,
hypersensitivity, transplantation and tumour
immunology. Overview of laboratory
immunology: cell suspension preparation,
immunofluorescence staining, FACS-analysis,
methods for antigen and antibody detection,
methods for detection of cellular immunity,
methods of molecular genetics.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
DRUG METABOLISM
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 8
Lecturer: Full Professor Branka Zorc
Aim of course: The goals of the lectures are
to impart knowledge about the basic
principles and mechanisms of the functioning
of drug metabolism enzymes and transport
systems, including biological and chemical
changes and actions of drugs and other
chemicals (xenobiotics) in relation to their
physicochemical properties (QSAR and QSPR),
drug-drug and drug-chemical interactions, as
well as use of the recombinant technology
and Internet databases for a better
understanding and predicting of biological
effects and drug interactions.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Pharmacology course completed,
passed examination in Medicinal Chemistry 2;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject - passed examination in.
Pharmacology.
Course content:
Introduction into drug metabolism and
biotransformations. Phase I reactions: biooxidations, bioreductions, hydrolysis, other
reactions. Enzymes and enzyme systems
(Peroxidases, Flavin Monooxygenases, CYP
enzymes, Molybdenum Hydroxylases,
Monoamine Oxidase, etc.). Phase II reactions:
methylation, glucuronidation, acetylation,
sulfation, amino acid conjugation, glutathione
conjugation. Stereochemical aspects. Prodrugs. Transport proteins: P-glycoprotein,
MRPs, BCRP, LRP, etc. (inhibition, induction,
stimulation). Pharmacogenomics. Inhibition,
induction, and stimulation of
biotransformations
Drug-drug and drug-chemical interactions.
Biotransformations and biological effects of
endo- and xenobiotics. Drug design: QSAR and
48
QSPR. Factors affecting rates of
biotransformation: kinetic approach to
enzyme inhibition/competition and enzyme
induction. Use of intra- and Internet
databases. Approaches to drug metabolism
studies: high throughput studies. Use of probe
drugs in vitro and in vivo. QSAR and QSPR
approaches and methods. Introduction to
practical work in the laboratory.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MAGISTRAL FORMULATION
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 4.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Željka Vanić,
PhD, Associate Professor Mario Jug, PhD
Aim of course: The aim of the course is to
provide a sound knowledge and skills in the
field of prescribing and compounding
medicines, along with the knowledge of
medicines management.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Drug Formulation course
completed; ; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Drug Formulations.
Course content:
Seminars:
Pharmacists and community pharmacy.
Prescriptions. Preparation of compounded
pharmaceuticals. Accuracy of dispensing and
labelling. Potential interactions. Dose
scheduling. Distribution of drug products.
Information sources. Prescribed dose control.
Legislation. Dosage calculations (doses for
infants and children). Basic pharmaceutical
calculations.
Laboratory:
Compounding of different formulations
according to medical prescriptions. Veterinary
drugs and formulations.
Teaching manner: seminars and laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
CLINICAL PHARMACY AND
PHARMACOTHERAPY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 4.5
Lecturers: Assistant Professor Vesna BačićVrca
Aim of course: To provide students with
information about ethology, clinical
symptoms, research and principles of disease
treatment with drugs that are in day-to-day
use in pharmacy practice oriented to
patients.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Pharmacology course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in
Pharmacology.
Course content:
Hospital - medical deontology. The role of
clinical pharmacist, Clinical trials, Drug
interaction and adverse effects.
Pharmacology of life stages - Neonates,
Paediatrics and Geriatrics. Medication errors,
Unit dose drug distribution system, Patient
examination, Importance of clinical lab tests,
Gastrointestinal disorders, Hepatic disorders,
Renal disorders, Cardiovascular disorders,
Respiratory disorders, Neurological and
psychological disorders, Infectious disorders,
Endocrine disorders, Obstetric and
gynaecological disorders, Urological disorders,
Haematopoietic disorders, Malignant
disorders, Rheumatic disorders, Eye disorders,
Skin disorders.
Therapeutic principles of selected most
frequent diseases with emphasis on chronic
diseases. The most important groups of drugs
will be discussed (indications, side effects,
contraindications, etc.). Particular emphasis
will be laid on the selection of appropriate
drugs and treatment regimens, a balance of
benefits to risks for patients under treatment
and patient monitoring. Special emphasis will
be also laid on generic drugs, and nonprescription drugs (OTC). Self-care and
nonprescription drugs. Typical conditions and
nonprescription pharmacotherapy. Problem
solving will be carried out using case studies,
and students will be trained to discuss drug
related problems.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACOECONOMICS
Course status: elective course
Year study: 4rd year
Semester: 7.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Petra Turčić, PhD
Aim of course: The aim of the course in
Health Economics is to provide students with
the basic knowledge of health care
organization and economic approach to the
health care system. A special objective is to
49
develop students' awareness of the
importance of economic evaluation of health
programs and a critical approach to problems
with which the health system is confronted in
the Republic of Croatia.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Introduction into health care organization and
health economics. Basic model of health care
financing. Basic concepts of health economics
(efficiency and equity). Financing of health
protection. Economic evaluation of health
and health protection. Health insurance.
Introduction into methods of microeconomic
analysis in health: cost-benefit and costeffectiveness analyses. Financing of health
protection: international comparison.
Macroeconomic problems of the Croatian
health system. Cost-benefit analysis
(examples, exercises).
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MOLECULAR BASIS OF DISEASES AND
THERAPY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Karmela Barišić, Full
Professor Jerka Dumić Belamarić
Aim of course: To acquire knowledge and
understand the mechanisms of genesis and
development of inherited and acquired
diseases on the molecular level, as the basis
of a rational approach to the development of
new therapies. To understand and consider
the principles of new therapeutic strategies
such as gene therapy and stem cells therapy.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Molecular Biology with Genetic
Engineering completed, passed examination
in Pathophysiology and Pathology; conditions
for taking an examination in this subject –
passed examination in Molecular Biology with
Genetic Engineering.
Course content:
Genetic, molecular biological and biochemical
bases of the following diseases: Cancer.
Diabetes / Obesity. Atherosclerosis / Stroke.
Emphysema / Asthma / Cystic fibrosis.
Rheumatoid arthritis / Systemic lupus
erythematosis. AIDS / Prion diseases.
Muscular dystrophies / Epilepsy / Multiple
sclerosis. Alzheimer’s disease / Parkinson’s
disease / Huntington disease. Depression /
Schizophrenia / Anxiety. Inherited metabolic
diseases / Storage diseases / Congenital
disorders of glycosylation. Diseases caused by
disorders of signal transduction pathways. /
Diseases caused by keratin mutations.
Molecular pathology / pathophysiology of the
listed diseases. Molecular physiology of stress.
Molecular basis of aging. Molecular basis of
behaviour. Epigenetics. Complex genetics.
Medical application of molecular biology and
medicinal engineering in clinical practice.
Rational approach to the development of new
therapeutic strategies based on the
knowledge of molecular mechanisms of
genesis and disease development (Rational
drug design). Vectors for targeted delivery of
DNA in cells and tissues. Anti-sense
oligonucleotides therapy. Application of small
siRNA in targeted posttranslational gene
silencing. Genetic immunisation. Stem cells
and their application in therapy. Cellular and
genetic therapy of vascular diseases and
cancer. T-cell therapy and immunotherapy.
Signal transduction molecules as targets for
pharmacological action. Designer drugs: the
therapeutic potential of new genetics.
Multidrug resistance.
Analysis of the examples from primary
scientific literature.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
ISOLATION OF BIOACTIVE NATURAL
PRODUCTS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4rd year
Semester: 8.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Sanda VladimirKnežević
Aim of course: Acquaintance with modern
extraction and isolation methods of natural
products in laboratory and industry.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Pharmacognosy 1 course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in
Pharmacognosy 1.
Course content:
The role of natural products in drug
discovery, development and production.
Modern drugs of natural origin. Solvent
extraction of natural products. Purification,
concentration and drying of extracts in
laboratory and industry. Separation methods.
Isolation of volatile compounds by distillation
procedures. Supercritical fluid extraction. Use
of chromatographic methods for natural
products isolation and separation. Purity tests
and characterization of isolated compounds.
50
Isolation procedures of bioactive natural
products from plant material, marine
organisms and microorganisms. Special
problems of plants extraction. Main principles
of the isolation of compounds with specific
biological activity (essential oils, alkaloids,
cardiac glycosides, saponins, sterols,
flavonoids and other polyphenols).
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYTOTHERAPY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Marijana Zovko
Končić
Aim of course: Acquiring comprehensive
knowledge of the composition, quality,
therapeutic features of herbal drug
preparations, principles of phytotherapy and
homeopathy, composition, quality and
purpose of food supplements.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Pharmacognosy 2 course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in
Pharmacognosy 2.
Course content:
Composition of herbal drug products. Quality
assurance of herbal drugs and herbal
medicines. Pharmacodynamic and
pharmacokinetic properties of herbal active
ingredients. Adverse effects of herbal
ingredients. Interactions with herbal drug
preparations. Safety and efficacy of herbal
medicines. Traditional phytotherapy.
Therapeutic classification of herbal drugs.
Herbal urological remedies. Herbal
gynaecological remedies.
Phytodermatological remedies.
Phytosedatives and antidepressants.
Adaptogenes. Herbal immunomodulators.
Herbal remedies influencing the respiratory
system. Herbal remedies influencing the
gastrointestinal tract. Herbal remedies
influencing the cardiovascular system. Herbal
antihyperlipaemics. Herbal remedies for
blood sugar regulation. Herbal
antirheumatics. Homeopathic preparations.
Food supplements.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
EXPERIMENTAL PHARMACOLOGY
Course status: elective course
Study years: 4th year
Semester: 8.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Lidija BachRojecky, PhD
Aim of course: Acquisition of knowledge
about the newest experimental methods for
proving and demonstration of
pharmacological effects of different drugs
and herbal extracts in preclinical
investigations.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Pharmacology course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Pharmacology.
Course content:
Students are informed about preclinical
pharmacological-toxicological research
indispensable for a substance to become a
medicine. They learn about in vitro and in
vivo methods of testing analgesic, antiinflammatory, anxsiolytic, antidepressant,
myorelaxing effects of substances, as well as
about testing substances with a potential to
cause addiction. Ways of pharmacological
profiling will be described as well as the
main pharmacological parameters.
Use will be made of in vivo demonstrations on
animals and of virtual programs and
simulations of experiments.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian, teaching also
possible in English
APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Associate Professor Maja Šegvić
Klarić
Aim of course: The course will teach about
the role of microorganisms and their
biological processes in the production of
products of wide therapeutic application:
antibiotics, steroids, human proteins,
vaccines, recombinant vaccines and vitamins;
microbiological tests according to the
pharmacopoeia, application of
microbiological methods for detection of
antibiotic activity in pharmaceutical
products, biological samples, and methods for
testing some vitamins, microbiological
standards of water and the role of
microorganisms in biogeochemical cycles.
51
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Microbiology and Parasitology.
Course content:
The course includes: biological and
microbiological analytical methods and
techniques within the framework of
pharmaceutical regulations; application of
biological assays (laboratory animals, cell
cultures, microorganisms) for testing
pharmaceutical preparations; microbiological
limit test, microorganisms count and sterility
tests of pharmaceutical preparations
according to European Pharmacopoeia;
application of microbiological methods
(diffusion and turbidity) for detection of
antibiotic activity in pharmaceutical products
(water solutions, powders, tablets, capsules,
lipid and oil solutions), biological material
(blood serum, urine, muscles, milk), and
methods for determination of some B-group
vitamins; cultivation techniques of standard
test-microorganisms; water microbiology
(microbiological standards, use of
microorganisms as indicators of water
pollution, handling of industrial and
commercial water waste); microbial ecology
(role of microorganisms in biogeochemical
cycling of organic compounds that constitute
the basis of life).
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian, teaching also
possible in English
MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY – SELECTED TOPICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Ivana Perković, PhD
Aim of course: Preparation of students for
research and development at university,
scientific institute or drug factory.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Pharmaceutical Chemistry 2 course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Pharmaceutical Chemistry 2.
Course content:
Lectures:
Development of New Drugs - From Discovery
To Market Availability the initial decision,
development objectives, preclinical studies,
clinical trials, industrial and pharmaceutical
development, medico-economic
development. Drug Nomenclature. Trade and
international nonproprietary names (INN):
history, procedure for the selection, general
priciples for guidance in devising INN,
application, selection process, common stems
in INN formation, use of nonproprietary
names, protection of nonproprietary names.
Patent Protection. Introduction, definition of
a patent - patent rights, kinds of inventions,
subjects of patents, liftime of patents,
ownership of patents. Synthesis of Drugs
examples of syntheses currently used drugs.
Designing Prodrugs and Bioprecursors the
carrier-prodrug principle, derivatization of
drugs containing alcoholic or phenolic hydroxy
groups, derivatization of drugs containing a
caronyl functions, derivatization of drugs
containing a carboxylic acid function,
derivatization of amines, prodrugs of acidic
NH functions, cascade prodrugs, double
prodrugs. Drug Targeting site-specific drug
delivery, site-specific drug release. Chemical
Modifications Influencing the Pharmacokinetic
Properties. Twin Drugs identical twin drugs,
nonidentical twin drugs, examples. Orphan
Drugs definition, examples.
Biopharmaceutics. Stereochemical Aspects of
Drug Action conformational restrictions, steric
hindrance, optical isomerism, drug-receptor
interactions, eudismic-affinity analysis,
differences in binding modes, differences in
pharmacokinetics, drug registration. The Use
of X-ray Structures of Receptors and Enzymes
in Drug Discovery protein crystals, protein
crystallography, contribution to drug
discovery, selected examples of structurebased drug design.
Seminars:
Active involvement of students in seminars,
search of relevant scientific references: to
find, study and give a lecture on drug
syntheses, drug targeting; to find, study and
give a lecture on a new patent.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian, teaching also
possible in English
ANALYTICS IN PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS
DEVELOPMENT
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Associate Professor Ana Mornar
Turk
Aim of course: To gain analytical knowledge
needed for drug development, starting from
the initial idea, through development of
formulation, technology and analytics of
stability, to preparation of documentation
need for registration. To understand the need
for a creative approach to the development
of new analytical methods and the choice of
52
optimal techniques aimed at obtaining good
and fast analytical results.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject –Pharmaceutical Analysis course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Pharmaceutical Analysis.
Course content:
Analytical monitoring of the development of
pharmaceutical forms:
Pre-formulation studies – aim, expectations,
and frequently used techniques; development
of analytical methods to determine the
content, impurities, release of active
substance and physical characteristics;
validation of analytical methods, generally
about validation, parameters for validation,
validation process and interpretation of
results, preparing reports.
Stability analysis:
Legislation, sources of information about
legislative requirements; stability analysis –
program of the analysis, collection and
processing of experimental data, assessment
based of experimental results, stability
report.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian, teaching also
possible in English
QUALITY ASSURANCE AND DRUG
REGISTRATION
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 2
Lecturers: Associate Professor Renata Jurišić
Grubešić
Aim of course: To inform students about
relevant legislation and the development,
importance and content of quality assurance
and good production practice (GPP) with
special emphasis on some elements of the
system and the application of GPP in
pharmaceutical industry.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Pharmaceutical Analysis course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Pharmaceutical Analysis.
Course content:
International legislation
1. EU – legislation and regulative bodies
(EMEA, CpMP) – form of registration file, ways
of registration, control of changes,
registration renewal; 2. USA legislation and
regulative bodies (FDA) – differences with EU;
3. CEEC – state of legislation; 4.
Standardization – ICH; 5. Inspections; 6.
Pharmacoeconomics; 7. Monitoring of drug
side effects.
Croatian legislation – comparison to
international regulations
1. Drugs Act; 2. Acts; 3. Pharmacopoeia.
Generic drugs and their registration.
Good praxis in pharmacy
1. GLP; 2. GCP; 3. GPP – development of GPP
and current requirements of GPP (EU, USA).
Documentation of the quality assurance
system
Validation
1. Generally about validation; 2. Elements
and types of validation; 3. Documentation for
validation; 4. Application of pharmaceutical
production.
Quality assurance of analytical measurement
1. System of chemical analysis; 2. Quality
control and assessment of the quality of
measurement.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian, teaching also
possible in English
INOVATIVE DRUG DELIVERY SYSTEM
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Associate Professor Jasmina
Lovrić, PhD, Assistant Professor Ivan Pepić,
PhD
Aim of course: The scope is pharmaceutical
aspects of novel drug delivery systems to
optimise the therapeutic effect. The course is
an advanced continuation of the compulsory
courses in biopharmacy.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Drug Formulation course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in Drug
Formulation.
Course content:
Theoretical and practical aspects of selected
novel formulation principles (applied as well
as potential) are considered in order to
illustrate the problems of optimising
absorption, controlled release, selective
delivery and the properties and effects of
excipients. In vitro/in vivo methods and
peptide delivery are also important topics.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
COSMETOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
53
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturers: Full Professor Jelena FilipovićGrčić
Aim of course: The course is designed to
provide the students with the modern
knowledge of the main cosmetic products,
and the raw materials for them, for optimal
skin management, hair care and mouth
hygiene. The choice of information is based
on good preliminary knowledge of human
biology and the physicochemical principles of
dosage forms and emphasizes the health-care
approach to cosmetics.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Drug Formulation course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in Drug
Formulation.
Course content:
The course will focus on:
Fundamentals, structure and protection of
skin, hair and nails as well as the basic
properties and functions of substances
commonly used in cosmetic products.
Basics of physical pharmacy necessary to
understand formulation effects and
manufacturing aspects of cosmetic products.
Cosmetic product formulation, understanding
of the principles of cosmetics and related
sciences while developing skills of critical
analysis and research methodology.
Quality control and evaluation of regular and
controlled-release cosmetic products.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACEUTICAL CARE
Course type: obligatory course
Study year: 5th
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturers: Course goals: Enable students to integrate
knowledge and skills in pharmaceutical
sciences and pharmaceutical profession in
order to develop the key competences
required for provision of pharmaceutical care
in community and hospital pharmacies.
Prerequisites:
enrolment requirements for this subject –
Clinical Pharmacy with Pharmacotherapy
course completed, passed examination in
Pharmacology; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Clinical Pharmacy with
Pharmacotherapy.
Course content:
The course encompasses the following
pharmaceutical topics: social and behavioural
aspects
of
pharmaceutical
care;
pharmaceutical
care
in
cardiovascular
diseases, diabetes, pain, eating disorders,
mental diseases and addictions, oncology
patient care; pharmaceutical approach to
rational phytotherapy; role of the pharmacist
in rational use of antibiotics; interpretation of
laboratory findings; reporting side effects and
pharmacovigilance;
pharmacoeconomics;
pharmaceutical ethics and deontology;
documentation of pharmaceutical care;
pharmacy organization and management; role
of the quality system in provision of
pharmaceutical care.
Course activities
include independent students' engagement on
seminar themes relating to different aspects
of pharmaceutical care and practical work in
pharmacies involving solving of real cases
from pharmaceutical practice.
Teaching methods: theoretical, problemsolving and field instruction; workshops –
team work in small groups
Evaluation methods: written examination
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Ivan Pepić, PhD
Aim of course: To introduce students in the
acts on healthcare and health insurance, and
in sub-acts regulating particular types of
health insurance; to introduce students in the
Act on Drugs and Medicinal Products, and in
sub-acts on the manufacture, testing,
registration, quality verification, and
marketing of drugs, medicinal and
homeopathic products; to introduce students
in the Act on Pharmacy (study in Pharmacy)
and Act on Medical Biochemistry Service
(study in Medical Biochemistry); and to
introduce students in the role of the Croatian
Chamber of Pharmacists and Croatian
Chamber of Medical Biochemists in the
organization of the pharmacy and medical
laboratory service.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Main characteristics of the Act on Health Care
with special reference to the different health
care levels. Health institution boards, health
institutions at particular levels of health care,
health institutes, reference centres, health
professionals, private practice, surveillance.
54
Main characteristics of the Act on Compulsory
Health Insurance with special reference to
the system of compulsory health insurance
implemented by the Croatian Institute of
Health Insurance, the scope of rights in health
care, the rights and obligations of the
compulsory health insurance users, and the
rights and obligations of the compulsory
health care providers. Main characteristics of
the Act on Optional Health Insurance with
special reference to supplementary,
additional and private health insurance. Main
characteristics of the Act on Occupational
Health Insurance with special reference to
specific health care of workers, rights in case
of work connected injury and occupational
disease. Act on Drugs and Medicinal Products
– the Act concept and main characteristics of
particular chapters on drugs, medicinal and
homeopathic products. By-laws regulating the
manufacture, testing, registration, quality
assessment, and marketing of drugs,
medicinal and homeopathic products. Main
characteristics of the Act on Pharmacy – the
Act concept and main characteristics of
particular chapters of the Act (on the study of
Pharmacy). Main characteristics of the Act on
Medical Biochemistry Service – the Act
concept and main characteristics of particular
chapters of the Act (on the study of Medical
Biochemistry). Main characteristics of the Act
on Drugs of Abuse Control – general
provisions, possession and turnover of drugs,
system for prevention of drug addiction and
assistance to drug addicts. Main
characteristics of the Act on Patient Rights
with special reference to the section on
patient rights proper.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACY ETHICS AND DEONTOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer:
Aim of course: Associate Professor Jadranka
Vuković Rodriguez
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Students will be familiarized with the ethical
principles and legal regulations applicable to
pharmacy, and its relationships with other
sections of the society. The course comprises:
Professional ethics, legislation and pharmacy
practice; Code of ethics, professional
responsibilities; Pharmacist-patient
relationships; Inter- and intra-professional
relationships; Standards of good professional
practice; Ethics in research; Ethics in
pharmaceutical industry; Medicines act and
other pharmacy legislation, Duties and
obligations to the public, etc.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Živka Juričić,
PhD
Aim of course: The aim of the course is to
enable students to understand basic concepts,
models, principles and skills in the field of
interpersonal communication as well as to
grasp the importance of the effective
professional communication in different job
contexts and with various categories of
actors: co-workers, patients, other experts
and media.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
The course consists of five thematic parts
presented by the experts in the field of
general communication theory and in the
specific fields of professional communication
in health services, pharmacy and
biochemistry. In the introductory part general
concepts, models and principles of verbal and
nonverbal communication are presented.
Using the methods of experiential approach
to learning students are enabled to
understand the characteristics of two-way
communication and the relationship between
the different communication levels. The
communication process in the pharmacy is
described in four phases: establishing
contact, gathering data from the client,
giving advice, and closing the contact.
Students are exposed to the effective and
ineffective forms of communication with
clients using specially prepared video
materials. The range of specific
communication skills are demonstrated and
discussed: active listening, asking questions,
giving feedback. Students are also acquainted
with the statistical data regarding the errors
in drug administration and their harmful
consequences. Students can also observe
video materials showing patient reactions to
the information about their illness and to the
instructions about the drug use. Regarding the
55
professional communication with other
experts the presentation skills are described
extensively covering five phases: planning,
preparation of the text, practicing,
performance and answering questions.
Students are also informed about the purpose
and importance of public communication in
media regarding the new scientific
achievements in biochemistry and drug
production.
Teaching manner: seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOSTATISTICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Krešimir
Sanković
Aim of course: Introduction to advanced
statistical methods. Application of statistical
methods required for experimental design and
data analysis present in biochemical and
medical laboratories and in clinical research.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – passed examination in Mathematics
with Statistical Analysis
Course content:
Correlation. Simple and multiple linear
regressions, Cox regression, Passing-Bablok
regression, Spearman rank correlation
coefficient. Analysis of variance, one-way and
two-way ANOVA. Analysis of frequencies, chisquare-test and Fischer’s exact test. Normal
distribution. Normality tests. Nonparametric
and distribution-free statistics, Wilcoxon
signed-rank test, Mann-Whitney test, KruskalWallis test, Friedman test. Experimental
design in clinical trials. ROC-analysis. Quality
control. Validation, process validation, assay
validation.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACOGENETICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Karmela Barišić
Aim of course: Structural and functional
genomics with an emphasis on how these
fields operate in drug discovery and
optimization.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Molecular
Biology with Genetic Engineering and
Pharmacology; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Variation in drug metabolism and therapeutic
response between two individuals matched
for body weight and receiving the same drug
dosage may be due to transient causes, such
as enzyme inhibition or induction, or due to
permanent causes, such as gene mutation,
deletion or amplification. Association
between genetic predisposition and drug
efficacy is investigated by pharmacogenetics
resulting in specific phenotype determination.
Pharmacogenetic polymorphisms may be
manifested at pharmacokinetic and
pharmacodynamic levels. The
pharmacokinetic level deals with gene
polymorphisms responsible for modification in
the concentration of a drug and its
metabolites at the sites of their molecular
action (drug metabolism enzyme
polymorphisms, drug transporters), whereas
the pharmacodynamic level tackles gene
polymorphisms associated with drug effect
and mechanism of action, unrelated to drug
concentration (receptors, ion channels).
Genetic polymorphism of a drug metabolism
enzyme is associated with the phenotype of
normal, extensive or poor metabolism,
whereas genetic polymorphism of drug
transporters and receptors makes the basis
for the phenotype with slow or rapid drug
absorption, i.e., poor or efficient interaction
with receptors.
The approach in pharmacogenetic screening
for a particular phenotype prediction is based
on the identification of alleles showing
sensitivity higher than 95%. Based on the
pharmacogenetic analysis results, patients
requiring a higher or lower drug dosage, or
those that need another identical drug, which
is not the respective polymorphic gene
substrate, can be identified in a group of
patients with the same diagnosis.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PERSONALIZED HEALTHCARE
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 2
Lecturers: Full Professor Jerka Dumić
56
Aim of course: To acquire knowledge and to
understand (i) the importance of interplay of
genetic and external factors as the key
determinant of health and disease, (ii) the
advantages of personalized health care, (iii)
the role of pharmacists in the development of
individualized heath care and prevention of
disease.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Molecular
Biology with Genetic Engineering and
Pharmacology; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Genes and inheritance. Risk factors. External
factors: life style, stress, environmental
factors. Interplay of genetic and external
factors – effects on health and disease,
resistance and longevity. Genetics and
physiology of aging. Complex genetics.
Complex genetic diseases – cardiovascular
diseases, cancer, diabetes, obesity,
psychiatric diseases, inflammatory intestinal
diseases, respiratory diseases,
neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune
diseases. Molecular diagnosis and genetic
variability analysis – principles, application,
purposes and social impacts. Molecular
genetic epidemiology. Biobanks. Personalized
medicine: prevention, therapy and prognosis.
Pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics.
Designer drugs: therapeutic potential of new
genetics. Complex genetics serves in health
care and prevention of disease. Living with
inherited risks. Complex genetics: legal and
ethical issues. Complex genetic diseases:
importance of public information and
education. Role of the pharmacist in health
care and prevention of diseases.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
DRUGS DESIGN
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 3.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Željko Debeljak
Aim of course: Special attention will be paid
to the interdisciplinary approach to
QSAR/QSPR, molecular modelling,
pharmacophore identification and databased
research in the design and development of
new drug candidates. The most frequently
used molecular descriptors will be presented.
Physicochemical significance, strength, and
weakness of QSAR methodology will be
discussed and numerous examples of
applications will be presented.
Special attention will be paid to methods
implemented in the existing biomedical
software. Examples of application of these
methods in drug design, and biochemical
kinetics and experimental design will be
given.
Students will also get familiar with the
principles and perspectives of experimental
and computer techniques in the design and
development of new drugs. Lectures will be
focused on the methods for determining
parameters relevant to techniques (biological
studies in vitro and in vivo) to computer-aided
predictions. Interesting examples of the
application of computer software for in silico
modelling and internet (intranet) databases
will be presented.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Medicinal Chemistry 2 course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject –Drug Metabolism
course completed.
Course content:
QSAR and Drug Design – new developments
and applications. Molecular descriptors
(topologic, steric, hydrophobic...). Lipinski
role (˝role of 5˝). Computer software for
molecular descriptors (TAM and DRAGON).
QSAR modelling in the design of bioactive
compounds (development of a new model,
lead compound, virtual screening, training set
and test set). 3D-QSAR (theory, methods and
applications). QSAR of peptides and proteins.
Numerical taxonomy and cluster analysis.
Current topics in QSAR modelling – prediction
of activity, metabolism and toxicity of new
drugs. Introduction to molecular mechanics
and conformational analysis. HyperChem
package basics. Ligand-receptor interactions
and de novo drug design. Similarity measures.
Determination and prediction of
physicochemical properties as factors of drug
design, strengths and weakness of models in
drug research. Biological studies in vitro and
in vivo. Introduction to molecular
lipophilicity, lipophilicity profile of neutral
and ionizable drugs (log P and log D),
experimental determination (˝shake flask˝,
TLC, CPC, HPLC, potentiometric titration,
PAMPA and Caco-2), prediction of lipophilicity
(history, novel calculation procedures),
application of lipophilicity in drug design,
molecular lipophilicity potential – a new tool
for docking, lipophilic space, lipophilicity of
metabolites and its role in biotransformation.
Blood-brain barrier and drugs affectivity
central nervous system, experimental
determination and in silico prediction of
57
penetration of the blood-brain barrier. Novel
in silico approaches to modelling transdermal
penetration. Significance of plasma-protein
binding in drug research, experimental (size
exclusion chromatography) and in silico
models to study plasma proteins binding of
drugs. Models for drug metabolism predictions
in early phase drug develompent studies
(QSMR - in silico models), metabolic
databases. Application of computer software
to in silico modelling in drug research
(PreADME, ChemSilico, ProLogP, Vega ZZ,
ACD/Lab and Osiris). Application of Internet
and Intranet databases in ADME modelling.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOCHEMICAL BASIS OF ENDOBIOTIC AND
XENOBIOTIC TOXICITY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Mirza Bojić, PhD
Aim of course: Goals of the lectures are to
impart the knowledge of biochemical
pathways and mechanisms of endo- and
xenobiotic toxicity, enzymes, enzyme systems
and transporters responsible/involved in drug
(xenobiotic) toxicity.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Drug Metabolism course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in Drug
Metabolism.
Course content:
Emphasis will be laid on xenobiotics, whose
toxicity is mediated by formation of reactive
species. Students will be acquainted with the
importance of oxidative stress in the
development of different pathological
conditions and with the role of reactive
oxygen and nitrogen species in organism. An
overview of antioxidant defence system will
be given. Toxicity of xenobiotics through
metabolic reactions (idiosyncratic drug
reactions). Reactions, enzymes, enzyme
systems and transporters involved in drug,
endo- and xenobiotic toxicity. Polymorphism
in drug (xenobiotic) biotransformations and
toxicity. Metabolic activation and toxiforic
groups, models used. Reactive species as
useful biomolecules. Free radicals, reactive
species and toxicology in xenobiotic
transformations. Antioxidant defences (the
role of endogenous and exogenous
antioxidants). Selected examples and
mechanisms of toxicity by biotransformations.
Seminars will be organized in such a way to
encourage individual research on a selected
topic (current topics in the field of interest,
e.g., generation of reactive species in
different diseases such as atherosclerosis,
diabetes, ischemia-reperfusion or rheumatoid
arthritis), followed by oral presentation. Work
will proceed in small groups.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
NUTRITION THERAPY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Dubravka Vitali
Čepo
Aim of course: Introduction to dietotherapy;
dietotherapy of particular diseases. Diet as a
risk-factor for the development of health
disorders.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – passed examination in Nutritional
Biochemistry.
Course content:
Dietoprevention – the role of particular foodingredients (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates,
vitamins, minerals, dietary fibres) in
development of nutrition-related disorders
(hypertriglyceridemia, hyperlipoproteinemia,
atherosclerosis, hypertonia, diabetes type II,
rachitis, osteoporosis, cancer). Feeding
disorders. Obesity – risk factor for
development of cardiovascular diseases,
diabetes type II, cancer, etc. Body mass
index. Undernourishment – malnutrition,
maldigestion, malabsorption. Bulimia,
anorexia, compulsive overeating.
Dietotherapy of nutrition-related disorders.
Dietotherapy of genetic disorders of
metabolism. Disorders in essential amino acid
metabolism. Diet in Phe, Leu, Ile, Val, Lys,
Met metabolism disorders (phenylketonuria,
tyrosinemia, alkaptonuria, albinism,
leucinosis, propionacydemia,
methylmalonacydemia, hyperlysinemia,
homocystinuria, cystathinuria, cystinosis,
cystinuria). Disorders in carbohydrate
metabolism (diabetes I, intolerance,
malabsorption). Food intolerance. Nutritive
allergies; mechanisms, dietotherapy,
recommended and forbidden foods. Principles
of diet for target populations (infants, little
children, adolescents, elderly, pregnant
women, sportsmen).
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
58
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
INDUSTRIAL PHARMACY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 3
Lecturer: associate research scientist Biserka
Cetina Čižmek, PhD
Aim of course: To extend knowledge that
students have gained in the pharmaceutics
course with basic principles and
pharmaceutical approaches to the process,
individual process operations, necessary
equipment, used process control, as well as
the explanation of their impact on the quality
of final product.
Prerequisite: none.
Course content:
Lectures:
Solid dosage formulations: processes,
operations and equipment for the
development and production of tablets,
capsules; production of other solid dosage
formulations, process of encoating and
equipment; materials. Sterile formulations:
processes, operations and equipment for the
development and production of parenteral
sterile solutions; production of other sterile
formulations; packing sterile formulations;
process, equipment, materials. Semi-solid
formulations: processes and equipment for
the development of semi-solid formulations;
packing of semi-solid formulations: processes,
equipment, materials. Liquid oral
formulations, packing of liquid oral
formulations: processes, equipment,
materials; trends in the development of other
dose formulations (except oral ones).
Seminars:
Seminars are designed as demonstrations of
lecture contents, in particular relating to the
production process.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
SOCIOLOGY IN PHARMACY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Živka Juričić
Aim of course: The aim of the course is to
train future pharmacists to optimize their role
as primary health care professionals. Along
with theoretical knowledge and technical-
manipulative skills, pharmacists should
acquire knowledge of the basic principles and
ways of communication, not only with
patients but also with physicians, in order to
create and implement the plan of treatment
and supervise the therapy. Namely, the task
of pharmacists is not only to dispense
medications but also to explain to patients
the conditions in which a drug will have the
maximum possible positive effect.
Prerequisite: none.
Course content:
Lectures:
Socio-cultural authority and professional status
of a pharmacist in modern society (selfperception of a pharmacist; collective
perception of a pharmacist; some general
negative stereotypes of pharmacists; main
attributes/parameters of the pharmaceutical
profession: cognitive, technical-manipulative
and value-normative; professionalization
project – establishing the monopoly over
rendering services; professional socialization
and instruments of outer and inner control;
pharmacist’s ethics; strategy of reprofessionalization of the pharmacist’s work).
Concept of pharmaceutical care: modus
operandi of the pharmaceutical profession as a
primary health-care profession (the concept of
‘care’ – a vague concept that does not belong
to the realm of ‘solid’, natural, objective
sciences; Heidegger’s philosophical structuring
of the concept of ‘care’; the meaning of care
in the context of pharmacists’ work: patient in
the focus of attention; pharmacists assuming
the responsibility in drug therapy: detection,
solution and prevention of health problems; the
basic postulation of professional acting: drugs
do not have a dose but the patients do; specific
forms of therapeutic action).
Pharmaceutical care and the needs of a
specific population (parents and children;
pregnant women; adolescents; old people;
patients suffering from chronic diseases;
women and medication; rational use of
antidepressants).
Communication in the context of a pharmacy
(interpersonal dimension of pharmacists’ work;
‘face-to-face’ interaction with a patient;
pharmaceutical hermeneutics; key
communication skills; verbal and non-verbal
communication; communication in the function
of overcoming asymmetry of knowledge and
power and patient anxiety; obstacles in
realization of communication: structural,
physical, culturological, psychological,
interpersonal communication in drug therapy:
pharmacist – patient – physician).
Patient counselling – an integral part of
pharmaceutical care (definition of counselling;
59
aims of counselling; its benefits for the patient:
safer and more efficient therapy, additional
explanations about illness, helping self-care,
reducing the costs of health care; benefits of
counselling for pharmacists: legal protection,
promotion of the health care team, higher job
satisfaction, reducing stress at work; greater
patient’s participation in the therapy; some
concrete situations where counselling is
indispensable).
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACY PRACTICE 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 3rd and 4th
Semester: 6 and 8
Number of ECTS points: 2+3
Coordinators of practical training: Assistant
Professor Željka Vanić, Associate Professor
Renata Jurišić Grubešić
Aim of course: Organization and execution of
practical training in pharmacy.
Prerequisites: enrolment in the 6th semester
(Pharmacy Practice 1) and in the 8th semester
(Pharmacy Practice 2)
Course content:
3rd year: In the 30 hours with a mentorpharmacist, students get familiar with:
mandatory technical literature and official
books at pharmacies (European and Croatian
Pharmacopoeias), storage of medicines and
medical substances, ordering and receiving
medicines and other products sold at
pharmacies, checking expiry dates,
monitoring supplies, weighing
monocomponent teas and sorting out
preparations.
4th year: In the 60 hours with a mentorpharmacist, students get familiar with food
supplements (herbal preparations, vitamins
and minerals, dietary products, etc.),
participate in the production of
extemporaneous and galenic preparations
(dosage control, compounding, labelling,
keeping records), learn how to apply
pharmacopeial and related regulations at the
pharmacy, get familiar with non-prescription
medicines and their purpose, dosage, side
effects, use limitations, potential interactions
with other medicines and food supplements,
and compare similar and/or related
preparations from different manufacturers.
Teaching manner: field work under
supervision
Teaching language: Croatian
PROFESSIONAL TRAINING FOR PHARMACIST
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 5th
Semester: 10th
Number of ECTS points: 30
Coordinators of practical training: Assistant
Professor Željka Vanić, Associate Professor
Renata Jurišić Grubešić
Prerequisites: enrolment in the 10th
semester; all obligatory courses passed.
Course content:
In the course Professional Training for
Pharmacists (720 hours in community and
hospital pharmacies) students master:
application of user pharmacy programs and
procedures of keeping mandatory turnover
and business records, dispensing prescription
medicines and medicines from special drug
groups (psychotherapeutic substances and
narcotics), procedures of preparation,
dispensing, distribution and monitoring
turnover of medicines at hospital pharmacies.
Students also aquire the knowledge and skills
of correct monitoring and reporting of side
effects,and are informed about the group of
products "Cosmetics" and "Special Purpose
Cosmetics", and master the ways of providing
pharmaceutical care.
Teaching manner: field work under
supervision
Teaching language: Croatian
60
DESCRIPTION OF INDIVIDUAL COURSES –
MASTER OF MEDICAL BIOCHEMISTRY
PROGRAMME
INTRODUCTION TO MEDICAL BIOCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 1
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Tihana ŽanićGrubišić, PhD
Aim of course: The aim of course is to learn
the main characteristics of pharmaceutical
science and practice, what is an occupation
of contemporary pharmacy that is a structure
of pharmacy studying, various possibilities of
professional activities in a health system,
development of experimental method and
nomenclature, as well as notices about
professional moral and ethics.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Allegoric review of Pharmacy and mythology
in pharmacy. Creative power of pharmacy and
unusual biographies. Goethe and pharmacy.
About pharmacy essence and pharmaceutical
chart of Europe. Chemistry and pharmacy.
The pharmacist and science. Pharmacopetal
science and Nobel prices. Pharmaceutical
literature and library. Pharmaceutical,
media, and medical information and data
circulation. Information in chemistry and drug
nomenclature. Pharmaceutical metrology,
laboratory work and quality assurance.
Observation as an origin of knowledge,
experiment and scientific conclusion.
Pharmacist as health educator.
Pharmacotherapy for non-professionals. Ask
about your medicines. Ethics, deontology, and
citizens. Introduction to medicines and
pharmacology. Anatomic Therapeutic
Chemical classification, pharmacy laws,
patent and the trademarks. Finished product
packaging. The pharmacy and its equipment.
Drug manufacture, dosage forms, routes of
administration and containers.
Pharmaceutical terms and graphy. Women in
pharmacy.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian
MATHEMATICS WITH STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 1
Number of ECTS points: 7.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Juraj Šiftar
Aim of course: Basic principles of
mathematical logic and functional analysis
needed to understand and solve typical
problems in physics, chemistry, biochemistry,
pharmacy.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Lectures:
The function of one variable: basic terms and
general characteristics. Basic elementary
functions. Elementary functions describing
molecular potential, molecular motions,
chemical and enzymatic kinetics, radioactive
decay. Limit and differential of a function.
Meaning of the differential in physicalchemical processes. Derivatives of functions,
analytical and geometrical interpretation.
Investigating functions with the aid of first
and second derivatives. Application of
derivatives to the analysis of chemical
balance, velocity of chemical and biochemical
reactions, Taylor’s and Maclaurin’s series:
application to molecular potential functions
and to linearization of physical-chemical
equilibrium problems. Integral calculus:
general rules of integration, indefinite and
definite integrals. Application of integrals:
arc length, area under the function.
Differential equations. Equations of the first
order, linear equations, differential equations
of the second order. Application of
differential equations in kinetics, kinematics,
photometry, radioactivity.
Basic probability concept. Descriptive
statistics. Discrete and continuos statistical
distributions: binomal, Poisson, normal.
Estimation. Sampling theory. Hypothesis
testing. One-sample hypothesis testing.
Statistical hypothesis testing for two
independent samples. Parametric statistical
tests: chi-square test, z-test, F-test, t-test.
Non-parametric statistical testing.
Correlation. Simple linear regression.
Seminars:
Solving relevant lectures and applied
problems.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
CELL BIOLOGY WITH GENETICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 1
Number of ECTS points: 7.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Ana-Marija
Domijan
Aim of course: The course addresses general
and specific principles of cellular biology and
basic principles, theories and mechanisms of
heredity. It begins by looking at the evolution
61
of the cell and then progresses to the
chemistry, anatomy and physiology of
intracellular compartments. Commonly used
techniques in cell biology will be introduced
both in laboratory work and in lectures.
Prerequisite: entrance examination passed at
the Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry
Course content:
Lectures:
Cell evolution: from the molecule to the first
cell; from prokaryotic cell to the eukaryotic
cell. Cell nucleus: eukaryotic DNA is packaged
into chromosomes; chromosome structure.
Membrane structure und function: the lipid
bilayer; membrane proteins. Principles of
membrane transport: carrier proteins and
active transport; ion channels and the
membrane potential. Intracellular
compartments and transport: protein sorting;
vesicular transport; secretory pathways;
endocytic pathways. Energy generation:
mitochondria and oxidative phosphorylation;
chloroplasts and photosynthesis.
Cytoskeleton: intermediate filaments;
microtubules; cilia and flagella; actin
filaments. Cell-cycle control and cell death:
cell-cycle control system; programmed cell
death (apoptosis).
Seminars:
Introduction to the cell: microscope; cell
culture; cell fractionation. Cell division:
mitosis; cytokinesis. Sexual reproduction: the
benefits of sex; meiosis; fertilization. Mendel
and idea of gene: monohybrid and dihybrid
crossing; laws of inheritance. Chromosomal
basis of heredity: Chromosomal theory of
heredity: Morgan and Drosophila; linkage
genes. Chromosomal basis of recombination:
recombination of nonlinkage genes:
independent assortment; recombination of
linkage genes: crossing over. Sex
chromosomes and sex linkage. Chromosomal
aberrations: variation in chromosomal
structure; variation in chromosomal number.
Human genetics.
Laboratory:
Cells under the microscope; Prokaryotic and
eukaryotic cells; Cell membrane; Intracellular
compartments; Mitochondria and
chloroplasts; Mitosis; Meiosis; Nucleus in
interphase: polythene chromosomes; Shape
and structure of eukaryotic chromosomes.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
GENERAL CHEMISTRY AND STOICHIOMETRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 11
Number of ECTS points:
Lecturer: Associate Professor Mario
Gabričević, Assistant Professor Ana Budimir
Aim of course: Students learn the following
subjects: 1. Chemical calculation
(Stoichiometry), 2. Chemical structure, 3.
Chemical bonds, 4. Coordination compounds,
5. Intermolecular forces and bonds, 6.
Solutions and their properties, 7. Colour of
inorganic compounds, 8. Electrochemistry.
Prerequisites: none
Course content:
Lectures: Basic chemical laws, periodic
system of chemical elements, electronic
structure of the atom, bonding theories,
molecule orbitales, aggregate phases of
substances, intermolecular forces, chemical
reactions, thermochemistry and basics of
thermodynamics, rate of chemical reactions
and chemical equilibrium, absorption of
electromagnetic radiation in inorganic
compounds, water properties, most
significant inorganic compounds in living
organisms.
Laboratory: Labware, physical and chemical
changes, transfer of chemicals, weighing,
evaporation and determination of dry
substances, distillation of acidic solution of
cooper(II)-sulphate pentahydrate, filtration,
iodine sublimation, extraction of iodine from
water solution by chloroform, separation of
different cations by the ring paperchromatography, preparation of solutions,
temperature dependence of solubility,
structure dependence of solubility, mixing
liquids with liquids, dissolution of ammonia in
water, electrolytic dissociation, electric
conductivity in solutions, redox reactions
between sulphur and oxygen, formation and
dissociation of coordination compounds, acidbase titration, dependence of reaction rate
on reactant concentrations, temperature, and
reactant surfaces, effect of catalyst on the
reaction rate, shift of chemical equilibrium,
indicators and pH measurement, copper
electrolysis, Faraday constant determination,
electrochemical cell – Daniel’s cell.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 1
Number of ECTS points: 7.5
62
Lecturer: Associate Professor Krešimir
Sanković
Aim of course: At the calculus level, to set
the physical bases for understanding the
structure of matter, behaviour of microscopic
and macroscopic systems under the action of
natural forces and force fields.
Prerequisites: none
Course content:
Quantities that describe motion, their
relations. Work, power, energy and potential.
Forces and force fields in nature. Motion of
particles and bodies in external force fields,
mass spectrographs with electric and
magnetic fields. Quanta in nature. Atomic
nucleus, nuclear reactions, spontaneous
radiation decay, application of radioisotopes.
Physics of the multitude of particles. Ideal
and real gases. Phases and phase diagrams.
Physics of liquids and solutions: pressure and
buoyancy, phenomena at the phase
boundaries. Heat and thermal disorder. First
law of thermodynamics.
Transport phenomena: Motion of particles,
bodies, charge and heat in the media with
internal resistance in gravitational,
centrifugal and electrostatic fields; diffusion,
osmosis and sedimentation, electric circuits,
electrophoresis. Generation, measurements
and observation of steady and alternating
currents and signals (oscilloscope). Electric
and magnetic properties of matter, origin of
electric and magnetic fields, energy in the
fields, electric dipole, interaction between
dipoles. Electromagnetic waves: polarization,
diffraction, interference, standing waves.
Sources: black body radiation, laser.
Interaction of electromagnetic waves with
matter: reflection, refraction, prism and
dispersion; simple optical instruments: lens
(magnifier), microscope, optical grading,
spectrometer elements; absorption,
photoelectric effect.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
CYTOLOGY AND HISTOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 2
Number of ECTS points: 3.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Mirna Sučić
Aim of course: To teach the basics of human
tissue cytology and histology, morphological
findings in inflammation and tumour growth,
and to present certain techniques in
morphological analysis of cells and tissues.
Prerequisites:
enrolment requirements for this subject – Cell
Biology with Genetics course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in Cell Biology
with Genetics.
Course content:
Introduction into cytological and histological
techniques. Basics of cell cytology, cell
organelles and their functions. Cytochemistry
and immunocytochemistry of various cells and
histological tissues. Cytology and histology of
epithelium, connective tissue, muscle tissue,
nervous tissue, haematopoietic and lymphatic
tissue. Blood cells. Cytology and histology of
cardiovascular and lymphatic vascular
systems, haematopoietic and lymphatic
systems, respiratory system, digestive system,
urinary system, nervous system, eye and ear,
male and female reproductive systems,
endocrine system and skin. Cytology and
histology of tissue damage, inflammation,
repair and tumour growth. Cytomorphology as
a diagnostic tool in recognition of malignant
tumours. Cytochemistry,
immunocytochemistry, molecular biology
techniques in diagnosis of tumour growth.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOETHICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 2
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Tonči Matulić
Aim of course: Knowledge of principles,
norms and virtues of biomedical practice.
Skills for observation, description and
definition of moral phenomenon in the filed
of biomedical research. Knowledge of
methodology of bioethical evaluation.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Introduction to Bioethics. History, definitions,
basic principles and norms. Bioethics and
biomedical sciences. Methodologies of ethical
argumentation. Relations between ethics and
biotechnology. Conditions of interdisciplinary
dialogue. Relation between facts and values.
Major bioethical conventions and
declarations.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
63
SOCIOLOGY AND HEALTHCARE
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st year
Semester: 2
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Živka Juričić
Aim of course: The aim of this course is to
train the future pharmacist for his/her
professional and social/supraindividual role
by offering him/her an insight into the wider
social context that encompasses human
health and illness.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Lectures:
Social concept and the context of health and
illness (the individual and social importance
of health, value driven substance of health;
changes in the meaning of health; illness as a
social construct; symptoms of illness as social
constructs; “disease”, “illness” and
“sickness”; how social defining of health and
illness can establish its credentials in relation
to natural sciences where the subject is
man). Philosophic origins and main
constitutive principles of biomedical paradigm
(biologism; positivism; pathologism,
mechanicism reductionalism; dualism of body
and soul; dualism of health and illness; theory
of specific aetiology of illness; dominant
status of biomedical paradigm in modern
society; “non-profitability” of biomedical
approach in healing the so-called illness of
modern civilization). Social role of the patient
(the role of the patient leads to commutation
of roles; patient’s rights; patient’s duties;
“good” and “bad” patient; illness as a
metaphor; illness as an identity; morbidity
and mortality transition; discourse on the
meaning and possibilities of sick-leaves in the
conditions of developed capitalism and
increasing “flexibilization” of the workforce).
Modern society and the “Health Hunt” (“the
culture of pain-killers”; the health
imperative; health as goods that can be
bought like any other merchandise at the
market; health becomes “the property of only
those people who have earned it”).
Medicalization and iatrogenesis (society
permeated by medicalization; social
iatrogenesis; clinical iatrogenesis; cultural
iatrogenesis; crisis of the biomedical
paradigm of health and illness). Lay
conceptualization of health (pain and its
psychological dimensions; pain as a bio-social
phenomenon; sociocultural variations and
expressions of pain; professional
acknowledgment of pain/symptoms). Health
Care (organization as a system; open system;
theory of action; power in the system of
executing health care; bureaucratization;
rationalization; negotiation; team work;
professional autonomy and the power of
health-care professional groups in the health
care system).
Seminars:
The life-style: sociocultural defining of the
patient’s behaviour (empiric research).
Differences in the perception of health in
relation to the socio-economic status (empiric
research). Dimensions of patient
stigmatization: HIV and cancer cases (empiric
research). Analysis of the status of anorexia
nervosa as a syndrome of Western culture
(empiric research). Discussion about pain: lay
explanatory models (empiric research).
Medicalization: cases of menopause and
dyslexia (empiric research). Sociodemographic characteristics of the patient as
determinants of patient satisfaction with
medical care (empiric research). Paternalism
and the patient’s autonomy (empiric
research).
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 1st and 2nd year
Semester: 2 and 3
Number of ECTS points: 7.5 + 6 = 13.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Svjetlana Luterotti
Aim of course: The course is aimed at
introducing the students to the theoretical
principles and importance of chemical
analysis and its application in chemical
identification, characterization, separation
and quantitative analysis.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment: To enrol for the course Analytical
Chemistry 2 students must have a certified
attendance record for Analytical Chemistry 1.
Exam: To take the exam in Analytical
Chemistry 1 students must have passed the
exam in General Chemistry with
Stochiometry; to take the exam in Analytical
Chemistry 2 it is necessary to pass Analytical
Chemistry 1.
Course content:
Lectures:
The role of chemical analysis, analytical
process and methods, sample and sampling,
types of chemical reactions. Performance
characteristics of analytical procedures;
sensitivity, selectivity. Analytical application
of protolytic, complex-forming, redox and
luminescence reactions. Homogeneous,
heterogeneous and complex equilibrium in
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chemical analysis, masking and demasking.
Theoretical principles of separations.
Principles and analytical application of
solvent extraction, ion exchange, methods on
capillary supports and chromatographic
methods. Basic principles of quantitative
analysis, errors in chemical analysis.
Principles of gravimetric analysis,
characteristics of precipitates and reagents
for precipitation, calculation of the result.
Titrimetric methods of analysis, standard
solutions, titration curves, methods of
precipitation, neutralimetric, redox,
complexometric titrations, non-aqueous
titrations.
Seminars:
Selective precipitation/dissolution.
Characteristic/selective reactions. Analytical
calculating of chemical equilibrium, simple,
complex. Data analysis and evaluation of the
result of the quantitative analysis.
Laboratory:
Systematic analysis and microidentification of
inorganic and organic ions. Chemical
identification of functional groups in organic
compounds. Treatment and analysis of the
solid sample. Separation of mixture of
cations/anions by selective
precipitation/dissolution, by ionic exchange
on the column and by solvent extraction.
Separation and identification of organic
compounds by thin layer chromatography.
Gravimetric analysis. Volumetric analysis
(precipitation, complexometric,
neutralimetric, redox).
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 1st and 2nd year
Semester: 2 and 3
Number of ECTS points: 7.5 + 6 = 13.5
Lecturers: Assistant Professor Viktor Pilepić
Aim of course: The aim of the course should
be to acquire, to a reasonable extent, the
basic knowledge of physical chemistry as the
discipline that establishes and develops the
principles used in explanation and
interpretation of observations in other
branches of chemistry. The approach involves
fundamentals of modern physical chemistry
methods and instrumentation. Integrating
everything mentioned, students should be
able to participate in the relevant
interdisciplinary physical chemistry research
or analytical work in pharmacy and medicinal
biochemistry.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment: to enrol for the course Physical
Chemistry II students must have passed the
exam in Physics and have a certifed
attendance record for Physical Chemistry I.
Exam: to take the exam in Physical Chemistry
I students must have passed the exam in
General Chemistry with Stochiometry; to take
the exam in Physical Chemistry II it is
necessary to pass the exam in Physical
Chemistry I and Mathematics with Statistical
Analysis.
Course content:
Lectures:
Comprise discussion about the properties and
structure of physical chemistry systems and
analysis of the dynamics of transformations
starting from the basic insights into
thermodynamics, spectroscopy, kinetics,
electrochemistry and colloidal chemistry. The
approach, though standard in the catalogue of
pertaining items, should be adapted to and
correspond with the requirements
encountered in the graduate study course of
pharmacy and medicinal biochemistry. This
holds for the study of thermodynamic
concepts and laws and the corresponding
applications in pharmacy and medicinal
biochemistry, as well as for the fundamentals
of spectroscopy, kinetics, electrochemistry
and colloidal chemistry.
Seminars:
Following the above approach, seminar work
comprises solving numerical examples and
problems related to the content and
requirements of the lectures.
Laboratory:
Determination of the heats of chemical
reactions, coagulation of the colloidal system,
adsorption, determination of the relative
molar masses from cryoscopic measurements,
determination of reaction rate constants,
potentiometric titration, pH determination,
titration and applications, conductimetric
titration, amperometric titration, use and
measurement of optical rotation.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 2nd year
Semester: 3
Number of ECTS points: 11.5
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Lecturers: Full Professor Olga Kronja, Full
Professor Valerije Vrček, Assistant Professor
Sandra Jurić, Assistant Professor Bernard
Denegri
Aim of course: The course aim is to teach
students, applying a mechanistic approach,
the properties and reactivity of basic organic
structures, basic strategies of organic
synthesis, and basic synthetic methods in a
laboratory.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in General Chemistry and
Stoichiometry course.
Exam: none.
Course content:
The fundamental thesis of the molecular
structure of organic compounds is introduced
first to enable students to better comprehend
the aim of the course, and to give them the
basis for understanding the theory and
laboratory practice. The subject matter is
distributed over the compounds that react
similarly (similar bond breaking and bond
forming processes). At the very beginning,
students are informed about the relation
between molecular structure and reactivity.
General features of organic reactions are
introduced with the group of carbonyl
compounds. Carbonyl groups are an integral
part of many (bio)organic compounds, which
makes the role of organic chemistry more
evident. These groups are polar and therefore
suitable for an extensive mechanistic study of
bond making/breaking processes. Also,
understanding of polar reactions involving
other groups of compounds. Besides
nucleophilic addition and substitution
reactions of carbonyl compounds, nucleophilic
substitution reactions at saturated carbon are
presented. Nucleophilic/electrophilic
properties of carbonyl compounds are
presented in the chemistry of alpha-carbanion
compounds, elimination reactions and
electrophilic additions are presented in the
chemistry of alkenes and alkynes, while
electrophilic substitutions are presented on
aromatic compounds. Polycyclic and
heterocyclic compounds are also covered,
while the strategy of organic synthesis is
considered at the end of the course.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 2nd year
Semester: 3
Number of ECTS points: 3.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Sanja Dabelić
Aim of course: Get students acquainted with
the molecular arsenal, structure, function,
and organisation of living matter. Recognise
the chemical logic of bioprocesses and gain
laboratory experience in studying
biomolecules.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Cell
Biology with Genetics; conditions for taking
an examination in this subject – passed
examination in General Chemistry with
Stochiometry
Course content:
Chemical elements of living matter.
Properties of water. C-compounds and
functional groups. Biological macromolecules:
directionality, modular architecture,
conformational dynamics, information,
complementariness, hierarchical organisation,
non-covalent interactions. Amino acids:
ionisation properties. Peptides. Proteins:
classification, four levels of structural
organization, the role of disulfide bridges,
solubility, sequencing. Nucleic acids
(nucleotides, structures of nucleic acids,
double helix, recombinant DNA). Lipids and
membranes (fatty acids, complex lipids,
structure and function of membranes).
Carbohydrates, glycolconjugates and
glycocalyx. Energetics of life (Metastability of
open system. Gibbs energy and energy
coupling. Group transfer potential and ATP).
Reversible and irreversible reactions.
Reduction potential. Gradients and
transmembrane trafficking. Enzyme catalysis
and controlled reaction rates (Transition state
and activation energy. Recognition and
catalytic sites: specificity and rate
enhancement. Coenzymes. Steady state
kinetics. Inhibition; alosteric effectors;
isoenzymes; covalent modifications;
nonprotein biocatalysts). Vitamins. Hormones.
Experimental study of specific biomolecular
properties and structure.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 1st and 2nd year
Semester: 1, 2, 3 and 4
Coordinator of practical education: Lecturer
Drago Vujević, PhD
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Aim of course: Imparting information about
physical education for the well-being, work,
creating and adaptive capability necessary for
the human way of living.
Course content:
The course content developed on the basis of
the influence of physical education on
personality changes and treating the
individual as an integral bio-psychosocial
complex contains: basic program which is
obligatory for the 1st and 2nd year students
according to the following criteria - interest
and motivation of student in a specific
kinesiology area and level of motoric
information, sex, and financial means; extracurriculum activities – sport teams
representing the Faculty at University
championships.
Teaching manner: physical activites
Teaching language: Croatian
MICROBIOLOGY AND PARASITOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 2nd year
Semester: 4
Number of ECTS points: 8
Lecturers: Associate Professor Ivan Kosalec,
Associate Professor Maja Šegvić Klarić
Aim of course: The program covers the basics
of bacteriology, immunology, virusology and
parasitology. The objectives include: studying
morphological, physiological and biochemical
characteristics of microorganisms, antigen
structure, production and mechanism of
antibiotics activity, as well as infectivity,
immunological response and pathogenesis of
pathogen species of bacteria, fungi and
parasites.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in Cell Biology with
Genetics
Exam: none
Course content:
The basic course content includes taxonomy,
biology (physiology, biochemistry and
genetics of microorganisms), antibiosis
(production of antibiotics and mechanisms of
their action), immunology (cellular and
humeral immunity), pathogenic, virulent and
antigenic characteristics of aerobic and
anaerobic, Gram positive and Gram-negative
bacteria, mycoplasms, viruses and fungi, as
well as classification and life cycles of
parasites. Through lectures and seminars
students will learn about sterility control,
serological diagnostics, vaccines production
and characteristics, hospital infections,
prevention of professional diseases,
diagnostics and prevention of bacterial and
fungal infections.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSIOLOGY AND HUMAN ANATOMY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 2st year
Semester: 4
Number of ECTS points: 9
Number of ECTS points: Lecturer: Associate
Professor Danica Galešić Ljubanović; Assistant
Professor Stela Bulimbašić
Aim of course: Anatomy and function of
tissues, organs and the entire body.
Explanation why anatomy and function are
connected and which regulatory mechanisms
sustain the normal body function.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in Cell Biology with
Genetics.
Exam: none.
Course content:
Body organization, nomenclature,
transmembrane traffic, membranous
receptors, membranous and action potentials,
main tissues, skin, skeletal system, basic
muscle anatomy, mechanism of muscle
contraction, heart and circulatory system,
blood, blood pressure, haematopoiesis, cell
proliferation factors, haemostasis, blood
groups, lymphatic system, basic immunology,
respiratory system, urinary system, urine,
digestive system, food digestion and
absorption, liver and pancreas anatomy and
function, regulation of body temperature,
vitamins, nervous system, neurotransmitters,
eye, ear, endocrine system, reproductive
system, pregnancy and lactation, basic
embryology.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 2nd year
Semester: 4
Number of ECTS points: 10.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Tihana Žanić
Grubišić, Full Professor Karmela Barišić, Full
Professor Lada Rumora
Aim of course: Introduction to the molecular
logic of biochemical reactions in living
organisms.
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Program covers the synthesis and degradation
of biomacromolecules: proteins,
polysaccharides, lipids, nucleic acids. Special
emphasis is laid on the regulation and control
of metabolic reactions within the cell.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
Biological Chemistry course completed;
Exam: passed examination in Biological
Chemistry.
Course content:
Dynamic aspects of the structure and function
for special proteins: haemoglobin, myoglobin,
collagen, elastin, and extracellular matrix
proteins. Cell membranes in different tissues:
transport of ions, amino acids, and sugars.
Transducing and storing of metabolic energy basic concept and design. Glycolysis,
oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvate, the
citric acid cycle. Cell bioenergetics, ATP
cycle, respiratory chain and oxidative
phosphorylation. Gluconeogenesis and
pentose monophosphate pathway. Glycogen
metabolism – glycogenesis and glycogenolysis
and hormone regulation. Lipid metabolism:
biosynthesis and degradation of triglycerides:
fatty acids:  - oxidation and biosynthesis,
glycerophosphatides, cholesterol and steroid
lipids. Amino acid degradation, urea cycle.
Biosynthesis of macromolecular precursors,
amino acids, hem, ribonucleotides,
deoxyribonucleotides. Information in
biological systems: DNA – genetic role,
structure, genome organisation,
chromosomes, genes. Organisation of DNA,
histones. DNA conformation. Replication and
reliability of the process. Mutations and
corrections. RNA and genetic message
translation. Synthesis and modification of
functional RNA molecules: mRNA and
transcription, t-RNA, activation and role in
protein synthesis, structure of ribosomes, rRNA. Genetic code and gene to protein
relation. Protein synthesis. Control of gene
expression in prokaryotes - Lac-operon and
Trp - operon. Chromosomes in eukaryotes and
control of gene expression. Introns and exons.
Integration of metabolism – global regulation
of biochemical processes within the cell –
control strategies.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 2nd year
Semester: 4
Number of ECTS points: 3.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Milena
Jadrijević-Mladar Takač
Aim of course: To introduce students to
pharmacotherapeutic groups of drugs.
Understanding the structural and therapeutic
relationships, mechanisms of action, side
effects and contraindications of drugs in
clinical use.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Organic Chemistry course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Organic Chemistry.I
Course content:
Introduction to medicinal chemistry, Drug
discovery, Structural and physicochemical
features of drug action, From the drug
concept to market, SAR/QSAR, Design and
application of prodrugs, Modern drug
approaches in new drug research, Drug
classification, Therapeutic groups:
Gastrointestinal drugs, Blood and blood
products, Plasma substituents and expanders,
Antianemics, Diagnostic contrast agents, Antiinfectives (antiseptics and disinfectants,
sulphonamides, antibiotics, antiprotozoic
drugs), Tuberculostatics, Antifungal drugs,
Anthelmintics, Virustatics, Anticancer drugs,
Psychopharmacological drugs, Analgesics and
anti-inflammatory drugs, Antitussives,
Expectorants, Antimigraine drugs, Uricosurics,
Anaesthetics, Muscle relaxants, Antiepileptic
drugs, Antiparkinsonian drugs,
Parasympathomimetics, Beta-adrenergic
receptor blockers, Antimuscarinicsparasympatholitics, Cardiac glycosides,
Antihypertensive drugs, Diuretics,
Anticoagulants, Antihaemorrhagic drugs,
Antihistamines, Antidiabetics, Hormones,
Eicosanoides, Lipid lowering drugs, Vitamins,
Essential trace elements, Fatty acids.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study years 3rd year
Semester: 5
Number of ECTS points: 7.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Milan
Kujundžić, Assistant Professor Ivica Grgurević
Aim of course: The aim of the course is to
present the basics of modern
pathophysiology, starting from the cause of
disease, pathogenesis, clinical status, and
sometimes a short reference to therapy.
Prerequisites:
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Enrolment requirements for this subject –
Physiology and Human Anatomy course and
Microbiology with Parasitology course
completed.
Exam: passed examination in Physiology and
Human Anatomy.
Course content:
Basics of pathophysiology. Pathophysiology of
blood and blood-forming organs.
Pathophysiology of the immune system.
Pathophysiology of the kidney.
Pathophysiology of the gastroenterological
system. Pathophysiology of the cardiovascular
system. Pathophysiology of the respiratory
system. Pathophysiology of endocrine glands.
Pathophysiology of metabolism disorders.
Major pathophysiological processes in the
nervous system. Basics of pathology. Basics of
working with patients and conducting clinical
interviews.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
GENERAL CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5
Number of ECTS points: 13.5
Lecturers: Full Professor József Petrik,
Associate Professor Roberta Petlevski
Aim of course: Introducing the students to
analytical quality specification of methods
used for the measurement of analytes in
biological fluids, cells and tissues in order to
assess the pathological changes in the human
organism.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
Biochemistry and Physiology and Human
Anatomy courses completed; conditions for
taking an examination in this subject – passed
examination in Biochemistry and Physiology
and Human Anatomy.
Course content:
Principles of medical biochemistry laboratory
work: preanalytical, analytical and
postanalytical phases, specimens, techniques
and instrumentations, quality assurance,
methods, reference intervals. Water and
electrolytes: water and electrolytes balance
and regulations, fluid compartments, water,
sodium, potassium, chloride, lithium,
calcium, phosphates, magnesium,
disturbances and disorders, methods of
determination. Acid-base balance and blood
gases: definitions and diagnostic parameters
of acid-base balance, buffer systems, kidney
and lung as control systems, acid-base
disturbances, methods of determination.
Proteins in body fluids: proteins in plasma and
serum, urine, cerebrospinal fluid,
transudates, exudates, metabolism and
catabolism of proteins, individual plasma
proteins, methods of determination,
disorders. Non-protein nitrogen compounds:
amino acids, urea, urate, creatine,
creatinine, ammonium, disorders, methods of
determination. Carbohydrates: metabolism
and hormonal regulation, diabetes mellitus,
acute and chronic complications,
hypoglycaemia, glycated haemoglobin,
fructosamine, disorders in the metabolism of
galactose, fructose and glycogen, methods of
determination. Lipids and lipoproteins:
metabolism and hormonal regulation,
structure and physiology of lipoproteins,
apolipoproteins, triglycerides, cholesterol,
phospholipids, disturbances, methods of
determination. Enzymes: enzymes in plasma,
organ-specific enzymes, isoenzymes, methods
of determination of catalytic activity and
enzyme mass, LDH, AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, CK,
AP, amylase, lipase, principles of diagnostic
enzymology. Trace elements: iron, copper,
zinc, selenium, characteristics of essential
trace element functions, disorders, methods
of determination. Qualitative and
quantitative urine and other body fluid
analysis.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
HAEMATOLOGY 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5 and 6
Number of ECTS points: 14
Lecturers: Full Professor Mirna Sučić, Full
Professor Renata Zadro
Aim of course: To teach students the
structure and function of haematopoietic and
lymphatic systems and cells; introduction to
clinical and laboratory findings on disorders
and diseases of leukocytes, erythrocytes and
thrombocytes.
Prerequisites:
Haematology 1: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Physiology and Human Anatomy
course completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Physiology and Human
Anatomy.
Haematology 2: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Haematology 1 and
Patophysiology and Patology courses
completed; conditions for taking an
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examination in this subject – passed
examination in Haematology 1.
Course content:
Structure and function of haematopoietic
organs, stem haematopoietic cells.
Differentiation of haematopoietic cells,
cytokines, chemokines. Erythropoiesis,
cytomorphology of erythropoiesis. Functions
of erythrocytes, iron and iron metabolism,
haemoglobin. Erythrocyte metabolism,
function of B12 and folates in maturation of
haematopoietic cells. Lymphatic system, T
and B lymphocytes, NK cells. Cellular and
antibody immune response, complement
system. Histocompatibility system and its
function. Granulopoiesis, granulocyte
functions and metabolism. Thrombopoiesis
maturation, functions of thrombocytes.
Monocytopoiesis, macrophages, functions and
metabolism of monocytes, adhesion
molecules. Eosinophils and basophils,
functions and metabolism.
Classification of anaemias, clinical and
laboratory findings in anaemias.
Hypoproliferative anaemias. Anaemias caused
by defective maturation: iron deficiency
anaemia, megaloblastic and nonmegaloblastic
macrocytic anaemias. Haemolytic anaemias.
Diseases of stem haematopoietic cells:
aplastic anaemia, paroxysmal nocturnal
haemoglobinuria. Disorders and diseases of
granulocytes and monocytes. Leukocytosis
and leukopenias. Disorders and diseases of
lymphocytes. Lymphocytosis and
lymphopenias. Infectious mononucleosis.
Immunodeficiency syndromes. AIDS. Clinical
implications of lymph node enlargement and
diagnosis. Splenomegaly and hypersplenism.
Malignant diseases of myeloid cells. Chronic
myeloproliferative diseases; myelodysplastic
syndrome; acute myeloid leukaemias.
Malignant diseases of lymphatic cells. Chronic
lymphocytic leukaemia; malignant
lymphomas, acute lymphoblastic leukaemias.
Multiple myeloma, macroglobulinemia
Waldenstroem, heavy chain disease,
monoclonal gamapathy, amyloidosis. Diseases
of thrombocytes; thrombocytopenias,
thrombasthenias, acquired thrombocyte
disorders, thrombocytosis. Allogenic and
autologous transplantation of stem
haematopoietic cells.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICAL BIOCHEMISTRY
Course study: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturer: Full Professor Jerka Dumić
Aim of course: Understand thermodynamic
and kinetic principles supporting the
metastability of the living system. Perform
selected kinetic and thermodynamic
measurements producing reliable results.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Physical
Chemistry 2, Biochemistry course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in Biochemistry.
Course content:
Life, energy and metabolism. Entropy and
equilibrium. Non-equilibrium steady state and
energy flow. Parameters affecting Gibbs free
energy. Chemical and electrochemical
potentials. Coupling of endergonic and
exergonic reactions. Oxidation/reduction
potentials. ATP and ion gradients:
intermediate energy stores. Water properties.
Acid-base equilibria. H+ homeostasis.
Ionization of amino acids. Stabilization forces
and dynamics of protein conformation.
Significance of quarternary structure.
Activation energy. Enzymes: recognition and
activation. Functional domains. Transition
state theory. Rate equation in steady state.
Temperature and ionic strength effect. Levels
of activity regulation. Multiple equilibria.
Allosteric effectors. Hill’s diagram and
cooperativity coefficient. Multienzyme
complexes. Membranes and principles of
passive, assisted, and active transport.
Optimized molar ratios in metabolic reactions
and cell volume. Energy partition and
conservation. Electron carriers. Oxidative
phosphorylation. Alternative uses of proton
gradients. Uncoupling electron transfer from
phosphorylation. Group transfer potential.
Unidirectionality of biological processes.
Integrated view of energy metabolism.
Evolution of bioenergetic systems.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MOLECULAR BIOLOGY WITH GENETIC
ENGINEERING
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 6
Lecturers: Associate Professor Gordana
Maravić Vlahoviček, Full Professor Gordan
Lauc
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Aim of course: To introduce students to the
theoretical basis and practical applications of
molecular biology and genetic engineering.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Biochemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Microbiology with
Parasitology.
Course content:
Organization and sequences of cell genomes:
genome size, non-coding DNA, chromosome
organization. Maintenance and
rearrangements of genomic DNA: DNA damage
and repair, SOS response, site specific
recombination, mobile genetic elements.
Methods in molecular biology: PCR, DNA
sequencing, SSCP, FISH, DNA microchip,
Southern, Northern and Western blot, ELISA.
Recombinant DNA technology: isolation and
labelling of nucleic acids, enzymes, vectors
and cloning strategies, recombinant vector
construction, introducing DNA into host cell,
production of recombinant proteins, gene
libraries, mutagenesis, gene inactivation,
anti-sense DNA and RNA. Advanced genetic
engineering technologies: transgenic plants
and animals, cloning of entire organisms,
GMO, transgenic technology in functional
genomics, development of new drugs and
therapies. Protein sorting and transport:
secretory pathway, signal sequences,
endoplasmic reticulum, protein folding and
processing, Golgi apparatus, vesicular
transport, lysosomes. Cytoskeleton and cell
movement: structure and organization of
cytoskeletal fibres, cell movement. Cell
cycle: phases, check points, regulation and
regulatory molecules of cell cycle, mitosis,
meiosis and fertilization, stem cells and
maintenance of mature tissue. Cell signalling:
types of signal molecules and receptors,
signal pathways, regulation of apoptosis.
Viruses: genetic material, size, morphology,
classification, replication, viroids, prions.
Cancer: development and causes of cancer,
tumour viruses, oncogenes and tumour
suppressor genes, applications of molecular
biology to cancer prevention and treatment.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
ANALYTICAL BIOCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturer: Full Professor Jerka Dumić
Aim of course: Teach the theoretical bases,
advantages and disadvantages of analytical
methods and procedures as well as their
application in biomedicine.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in Analytical Chemistry 2
and Biochemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Advanced electrophoretic methods in
genomics and proteomics. Advanced
immunochemical techniques and biological
markers. Principles and application of
spectrofluorimetry and infrared
spectroscopy./Circular dichroism. Flow
cytometry. High-performance
chromatographies and advanced separation
technologies. Principles and application of
radioisotope methods. Advanced enzyme
techniques. Microcalorimetry. Cristallographic
methods. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
and magnetic resonance in biomedicine.
Electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR).
Surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Principles
and application of mass spectroscopy.
Determinaton of the primary structure of
macromolecules. Microarray (microchip)
technologies. Nanotechnologies. Biosensors.
Molecular modeling./Bioinformatic analysis.
Rational approach to planning and designing
experiments. Analysis of the application of
particular methods in selected scientific
literature.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
IMMUNOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 4
Lecturer: Full Professor Jerka Dumić
Aim of course: The course is intended to
provide important and recent knowledge of
cellular and molecular immunology.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Pathophysiology with Patology
course completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Overview of basic immunology: organization
of the immune system-lymphoid organs, cells,
communicating molecules (cytokines,
chemokines, adhesion molecules),
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hystocompatibility genes and antigens.
Antigen-presenting cells (APC) and antigen
presentation. Innate immunity: specific
receptors and their "molecular recognition
patterns". Adaptive immunity-specific
receptors, antigens, humoral and cellular
immunity, regulation of the immune
response. Overview of clinical immunology:
immunodeficiency, autoimmunity,
hypersensitivity, transplantation and tumour
immunology. Overview of laboratory
immunology: cell suspension preparation,
immunofluorescence staining, FACS-analysis,
methods for antigen and antibody detection,
methods for detection of cellular immunity,
methods of molecular genetics.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY OF THE ORGANS
AND ORGANIC SYSTEMS 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 3rd and 4th year
Semester: 6 and 7
Number of ECTS points: 4 + 6 = 10
Lecturers: Full Professor Jozsef Petrik,
Associate Professor Nada Vrkić
Aim of course: Define the meaning of the
general and specific clinical-biochemical tests
in the screening, prevention, diagnostics,
progression, monitoring of the effects of
therapy and prognosis of diseases of different
organs and organic systems.
Prerequisites:
Clinical Biochemistry of the Organs and
Organic Systems 1: enrolment requirements
for this subject – General Clinical
Biochemistry and Pathophysiology with
Patology courses completed; conditions for
taking an examination in this subject – passed
examination in General Clinical Biochemistry
and Pathophysiology with Patology.
Clinical Biochemistry of the Organs and
Organic Systems 2: enrolment requirements
for this subject – Clinical Biochemistry of the
Organs and Organic Systems 1 course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Clinical Biochemistry of the
Organs and Organic Systems 1.
Course content:
Methods of evaluation of disorders of cell
integrity and functions of organs and organic
systems. Liver: the role of liver in
metabolism, synthesis, preservation,
detoxication and excretion; laboratory
diagnostics of acute and chronic diseases,
cholestasis. Cardiovascular system: heart
symptoms, congestive heart failure,
hypertension, risk factors for cardiovascular
diseases, markers of heart diseases. Kidney
and urinary tract: laboratory evaluation of
the function, filtration, reabsorption and
secretion in kidneys. Gastrointestinal tract:
tests of gastric, pancreas and intestinal
functions. Mineral and bone metabolism:
integrated control of bone and mineral
metabolism, biochemical markers of bone
turnover, bone disease. Respiratory system:
tests of manifestation and evaluation of lung
diseases: pneumonia, asthma, COPD.
Neurologic system: tests of manifestation and
evaluation of inflammatory and infective
diseases. Pituitary gland: hypothalamic
regulation, adenohypophysis hormones,
neurohypophysis hormones, tests for pituitary
function assessment. Thyroid gland: thyroid
hormones, analytical methodology of
determination, disorders of the thyroid.
Adrenal glands: general steroid chemistry,
adrenocortical steroids, analytical
methodology of the determination, disorders
of the adrenal cortex. Tumours: metabolic
changes in cancer cells, tumour markers,
analytical methods of determination of
tumour markers.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY METHODS IN
BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3nd year
Semester: 5.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Assistant Professor Viktor Pilepić
Aim of course: The aim of the course is an
advanced approach to physical chemistry and
its methods starting from the model problem
of the interaction of vitamin C and a toxin in
solution and a colloidal system. The approach
integrates applications of kinetic and
thermodynamic methods and spectroscopic
methods including UV, IR, NMR and ESR
techniques.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Physical
Chemistry 2; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Lectures:
An advanced course of the methods in
physical chemistry involving thermodynamic
and kinetic methods, UV, IR, NMR and ESR
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spectroscopies. Basic approach to the study of
reaction mechanisms.
Laboratory:
A model exercise that integrates application
of all the mentioned physical chemistry
methods and techniques to investigate the
interaction of vitamin C with a toxin in
solution and in a colloidal system.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
SELECTED METHODS OF INSTRUMENTAL
ANALYSIS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3nd year
Semester: 6.
Number of ECTS points: 2,5
Lecturers: Full Professor Svjetlana Luterotti
Aim of course: The course aim is to teach the
basic principles of spectroscopic,
electrochemical and thermal methods of
analysis as well as their application.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
passed examination in Analytical Chemistry 2.
Exam: none.
Course content:
Lectures:
Theory and application of spectroscopic,
electrochemical and thermal methods of
analysis in the general analytical and modern
medical practice. Spectroscopic methods,
introduction, UV-Vis spectrophotometry,
atomic-absorption (emission) spectroscopy.
Electrochemical methods, introduction,
electrogravimetry, ion-selective electrodes.
Thermal methods, introduction,
thermogravimetry, differential scanning
calorimetry.
Laboratory:
Quantitative analyses of inorganic/organic
analytes in simple samples, pharmaceutical or
complex biological samples by the use of:
electrogravimetry, potentiometric titration,
UV-Vis spectrophotometry, atomic-absorption
(emission) spectroscopy, differential scanning
calorimetry.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3nd year
Semester: 5.
Number of ECTS points: 1,5
Lecturer: Full Professor Irena VedrinaDragojević
Aim of course: Introduction to health ecology
as a part of ecological sciences, endangered
environmental elements and human
influence. Dependence of population on the
impact of environmental factors on health.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Definition of ecology, classification,
terminology. Concept of sustainable
development. Food chain contaminants –
influence on human health. Health aspects of
ecology. Ecological concepts of health.
Ecological toxicants and risk assessments.
Health criteria: primary and secondary
standards. Environmental factors and health.
Physical factors (micro- and macroclimatic),
mechanical energy (noise, vibrations),
radiation energy (ionic and nonionic
radiation). Chemical environmental factors:
metals and non-metals. Heavy metals (lead,
cadmium, mercury). Microelements as
contaminants. Agents used in agriculture and
stock breeding as food chain contaminants –
residues of pesticides and herbicides,
antibiotics, hormones and veterinary
preparations. Food additives and their
influence on health. Impact of technological
processes, processing conditions and storage
on food quality (biogenic amines,
mycotoxins). Polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons and nitrosamines – development
in natural processes and through human
impact. Consumer goods as potential hazard
to human health (dishes, packaging as
integral part of foods, toys, cosmetics,
cleaning agents). Phthalates (vinyl-softeners),
use (toys, medical equipment) –
cancerogenity, toxicity, human exposure, risk
assessments. Carcinogens in nutrition and
professional environment. Silicosis,
asbestosis, skin cancer. Smoking and cancer.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
SELECTED TOPICS FROM APPLIED
PSYCHOLOGY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Aim of course: Inform students about several
fields of applied psychology to get an insight
into basic areas of applied psychology, learn
what psychologists do and how they can
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collaborate with them in their future
professional work.
Prerequisites: none.
Course content:
Psychology of the individual: individual
differences and abilities; emotions and
emotional intelligence; perception and states
of consciousness, self-esteem development,
evolutionary interpretation of sexual
differences, parenthood and parenting styles.
Psychology and education: factors that affect
learning and approaches to learning;
overcoming learning difficulties; lifelong
learning.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian
SPECTROSCOPIC IDENTIFICATION OF
ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Olga Kronja
Aim of course: Understanding of the basis of
spectroscopic methods (NMR, IR, CD, UV-VIS,
MS) and practical use of these instrumental
techniques in solving the structural and
dynamic properties of bioactive compounds
(i.e. steroids, vitamins, drugs).
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Organic
Chemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Combined application of spectroscopic
methods in organic chemistry and
biochemistry is an important approach in
characterization of structure and dynamic
properties of (bio)organic compounds.
Fundamentals and practical use of mass
spectrometry, IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR
spectroscopy in detection of (bio)organic
compounds, in determining their structures
and their rearrangment pathways, and in
defining their portion in complex mixtures
and biological materials (blood, urine). The
nature of interaction of electromagnetic
radiation with molecules will be explained in
more details which will enable students to
apply spectroscopic methods in other region
of electromagnetic spectrum (microwaves,
vacuum-UV). Along with identification and
characterization of (bio)organic compounds,
the use of especially NMR spectroscopy in
analyzing of dynamic processes (i.e.
conformation change, rearrangements) will
be presented. Spectroscopic methods enable
to accumulate and analyze kinetic parameters
which gives better insight into mechanism of
these processes. This is important for
understanding of (bio)transformation of
organic compounds.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MODER BIOCHEMICAL TECHNIQUES
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5.
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Assistant Professor Sandra Šupraha
Goreta, Associate Professor Sanja Dabelić
Jerka Dumić Belamarić, PhD
Aim of course: Learn the theoretical bases,
applications and limitations of modern
biochemical and molecular-biological
methods and procedures, understand the
principles of modern biochemical and
molecular-biological procedures and methods,
learn how to select the appropriate method
for collecting experimental data, know the
scope and limitations of the selected
bioanalytical method, interpret data obtained
using the selected bioanalytical method.
Conditions:
Enrolment conditions: passed exam in
Biological Chemistry and a certified
attendance record of Biochemistry
Exam conditions: passed exam in Analytical
Chemistry 2 and Biochemistry
Course contents:
Analysis and quantification of biomolecules,
Sources and preparation of biological
material/Cell and tissue cultures.
Sedimentation methods. Chromatographic
methods. Electrophoretic methods.
Electrochemical methods. Immunochemical
methods. Modern methods of DNA analysis.
Spectroscopic methods. Result analysis and
presentation. Bioanalytical approach from the
aspect of diagnostics, research and pharmacy.
Teaching methods: theoretical, problem
solving and practical
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching in
English is possible.
BIOLOGICAL MEMBRANES AND CELL
SIGNALLING
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 5
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
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Lecturers: Full Professor Tihana Žanić
Grubišić, Full Professor Lada Rumora
Aim of course: The program covers
fundamental structure-function relationships
in membrane proteins. Molecular mechanisms
underlying signal transduction and regulation
of signalling pathways will be studied.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject –Biochemistry course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in Biochemistry.
Course content:
Membrane dynamics, structure and
organisation; Different types of membrane
transport; Families of membrane proteins;
Anion channels: -aminobutyric acid (GABA)
receptors, cystic fibrosis transmembrane
conductance regulator (CFTR), multidrug
resistance transporters (MDR); Membranebound enzymes: adenosine triphosphatases
(ATPases); Ectoenzymes; Cell receptors as
signalling molecules: G-protein-coupled
receptors, tyrosine kinase receptors, death
receptors; Signal transduction in the cell:
signalling pathways of mitogen-activated
protein kinases (MAPKs), phosphatidylinositol3 kinase (PI3K), caspases, bcl-2 proteins;
Signalling pathways as therapeutic targets.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MEMBRANE TRANSPORT OF MATTER AND
INFORMATION
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Krešimir
Sanković
Aim of course: To address the importance of
structural and functional role of cell
membranes, particularly in transport of
matter and information and in regulation of
biological processes.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Biochemistry and in Physics
Course content:
Molecular organization of cell membranes,
intermolecular interactions. Phase diagrams
lipid/water, status of proteins in membranes.
Equilibrium of neutral and charged species
across membranes. Electrochemical potential,
Nernst equation, osmotic pressure. Passive
transport of neutral and charged species
across membranes. Diffusion potential,
Goldman equation, origin of biopotential.
Active transport, ionic channels. Electrical
excitation of membranes: action potential,
impulse transport along the axon. HodgkinHuxley model – electrical equivalent schemes.
Synapse - chemical link in signal transfer of
information. Chemical transmitters of
information between brain cells; memory.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
HUMAN AND POPULATION GENETICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Ingeborg Barišić
Aim of course: Introduction to the basics of
human genetics - normal and abnormal
structure of genetic material, incidence,
prevalence and transmission of genetic
diseases. Diagnostics and prevention.
Population analyses- research and results.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Molecular Biology with Genetic
Engeneering course completed; contidions for
taking an examination in this subject – passed
examination in Molecular Biology with Genetic
Engeneering.
Course content:
Introduction into human genetics - genome
organisation, abnormal structure of genetic
material, diseases connected with
disturbances in the structure of genetic
material – progenesis and kiematogenesis –
normal processes and disorders, nature and
incidence of genetic diseases, types of
inheritance, diagnostics and prevention of
inborn errors of metabolism, genetic
counselling, antenatal diagnosis, genetic
screening, population genetics.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
IMMUNOCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Slavica Dodig
Aim of course: Teach chemical processes in
immunology, basic principles of
immunoassays, as well as the range and
implementation of immunoassays in clinical
medicine.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Immunology course completed,
75
passed examination in General Clinical
Biochemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Immunology.
Course content:
Antigens - structure, types. Epitopes. Blood
groups ABO. Rh antigens. Haptens. Allergens.
Antibodies - structure. Classes and subclasses
of immunoglobulins: IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE, IgD.
Secretory immunoglobulins. Antibody
heterogeneity. Immunization. Vaccination.
Preparation of hyperimmune serums.
Antibodies intended for use in
immunochemical analysis. Production of
polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies.
Complement - properties. Activation of
complement. Classical pathway. Alternative
pathway activation. Lectin pathway
activation. Antigen - antibody reaction.
Intermolecular attractive forces binding
antigen to antibody. Affinity. Avidity.
Influence of temperature, pH and salt
concentration to affinity. Constant of steady
state. Immunoassays - overview and
properties. Precipitation reactions.
Qualitative techniques in gel. Quantitative
techniques in gel. Techniques with labelling
substances. Preferences and imperfections of
labels (radioisotopic labels, enzyme labels,
fluorescent labels, luminescence labels).
Avidin-biotin reaction. Bio-chip technology in
immunochemistry. Flow cytometry.
Cytochemical and histochemical methods.
Standardization of in vivo and in vitro tests.
Optimization. Validation. Reference intervals.
Laboratory equipment for immunoassays.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian
COAGULATION
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 4
Lecturer: Full Professor Renata Zadro
Aim of course: Curriculum of Coagulation
course includes the biochemistry and
physiology of haemostasis, pathophysiology of
thrombosis, diagnosis and treatment of both
diseases.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Haematology 2 course
completed, passed examination in General
Clinical Biochemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Haematology 2
Course content:
Overview of coagulation, fibrinolysis and their
regulation. The role of blood vessels in
haemostasis. Biochemistry of coagulation
factors. Structure and function of factor VIII
and von Willebrand factor. Disorders of
haemostasis and thrombosis: classification
and clinical features. Quantitative and
qualitative platelet disorders. Vascular
disorders. Congenital disorders of blood
coagulation (haemophilia A and B, von
Willebrand disease). Acquired disorders of
blood coagulation (disseminated intravascular
coagulation). Thrombophilia: genetic and
acquired factors. Mechanism of action of
anticoagulant drugs. Laboratory control of
antithrombotic and antiaggregant therapy.
Laboratory evaluation of haemostatic
disorders: global coagulation tests
(prothrombin time, activated partial
thromboplastin time, fibrinogen),
determination of coagulation and fibrinolytic
factor activities, chromogenic tests for factor
and inhibitor activities. Study of platelet
function: bleeding time, primary haemostasis
capacity, platelet aggregation.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturers: Full Professor Karmela Barišić,
Aim of course: The program covers the
fundamental principles of molecular
technology and techniques used in clinical
and research laboratories, skills to perform
basic procedures of molecular diagnostic
testing and to interpret results.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in General
Clinical Biochemistry, Molecular Biology with
Genetic Engineering and Hematology 2
courses completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Haematology 2 and Molecular
Biology with Genetic Engeneering
Course content:
Genetic bases of diseases; Methods of in vitro
manipulation of nucleic acids; Extraction,
quantification, hybridization and digestion of
nucleic acids; Amplification techniques (PCR,
RT-PCR); Electrophoresis, sequencing and
detection methods; Quantitative PCR;
Microarray and in-situ hybridization; General
principles of genetics applied to diagnosing
76
diseases (cystic fibrosis, Huntington disease,
muscular dystrophy Duchenne, fragile x
chromosome syndrome, atherosclerosis,
hypertension, asthma, neurodegenerative
diseases), oncology, forensic, paternity,
transplantation and infectious disease;
Pharmacogenetics; Interpretation of results
and quality control.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English and German
NEUROCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Ksenija Fumić
Aim of course: Introduction to the
fundamentals of neurobiology and
cerebrospinal fluid diagnosis of neurological
diseases.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in General
Clinical Biochemistry.
Course content:
Lectures:
Development of the nervous system.
Anatomic and morphologic division of the
central nervous system and basic functions.
Cell structure (macroglia and microglia). Grey
and white matter. Cell biology of neurons.
Membrane and action potential. Synapses and
neurotransmitters. Modes of neuron
association (neuron series, pathways, circles,
networks). Structure and function of the
peripheral nervous system. Basic sensory and
motor pathways. Lipids and proteins of the
nervous system. Axon transport. Myelin.
Pathobiochemical basis of neurological
diseases. Cerebrospinal fluid as the "mirror" of
the central nervous system.
Seminars:
Anatomic characteristics of fluid spaces,
hydrodynamics of cerebrospinal fluid and its
key functions. Blood-brain and blood-fluid
barrier. Transfer of substances and cellular
elements through the system of barriers.
Fluid content in health and disease.
Neurological diseases with the most frequent
indications for fluid analysis. Cytological and
biochemical fluid tests.
Laboratory:
Application of chromatographic and
electrophoretic techniques in protein and
lipid research in the cerebral tissue and
cerebrospinal fluid.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PHARMACOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 8.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Lidija BachRojecky, PhD
Aim of course: Acquiring knowledge of
interactions between drugs and human body.
Prerequisites:
Enrolment requirements for this subject –
Medicinal Chemistry and Patophysiology and
Patology courses passed and Clinical
Biochemistry of Organs and Organ Systems 1
and Molecular Biology with Genetics courses
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Microbiology and Parasitology.
Course content:
Students gain knowledge of general and special
pharmacology for all groups of drugs, systematized
according to the anatomical-therapeuticalchemical classification (ATC-classification). Drug
behaviour in the body (pharmacokinetics) and
general principles of drug actions
(pharmacodynamics) for more than a thousand
registered drugs in Croatia. General principles of
pharmacology include: 1. the main principles of
pharmacokinetics - characteristics of drugs for
local and systemic application, passage through
cell membranes, absorption from the
gastrointestinal system and after parenteral
application, distribution, bioavailability,
metabolism and elimination; 2. general principles
of pharmacodynamic drug action, molecular
mechanisms, receptors, neurotransmitters and
factors affecting drug actions. Special
pharmacology includes knowledge of drugs from
the following fields: pharmacology of the
gastrointestinal tract (drugs for peptic ulcus,
laxatives, antidiarrheal agents, antiemetics,
anorexics, spasmolytics, antiflatulents, propulsives
and digestives); pharmacology of the
cardiovascular system (drugs acting on the heart,
antihypertensives - diuretics, Ca-channel blockers,
inhibitors of angiotensin system and -blockers,
anti-dysrhythmic drugs, coronary vasodilators,
hypolipemics); pharmacology of the haemopoietic
system (antianemics, anticoagulants, fibrinolytics
and erythropoietins); pharmacology of the
autonomic nervous system (drugs acting on
cholinergic and adrenergic systems), and
pharmacology of the central nervous system
(sedatives-hypnotics, anaesthetics, antipsychotics,
77
antidepressants, antiparkinsonics, antiepileptics
and anxiolytics); drugs for pain treatments and
palliative care (opioid and nonopioid analgetics),
migraine treatment, antipyretics, antiinflammatory
drugs; drugs for bone and muscle systems
(antirheumatics, diphosphonates, etc.);
glucocorticoids, interferons, immunosuppressants
and antialergics; pharmacology of the respiratory
system (antiasthmatics, drugs for other obstructive
pulmonary diseases, antitussics and expectorants).
Antimicrobic drugs (antibiotics, antivirotics,
antimycotics, antituberculotics, antiprotosoics and
anthelmintics); cytostatics; hormonal therapeutics
(contraceptives, inhibitors of prolactine, androgens
and anti-androgens, estrogens, progestagens,
gonadotropins, drugs for thyroid disease
treatment, glucagon, calcitonin);
immunostimulants, immunoserums,
immunoglobulins; ophthalmics and otologics as well
as dermatologic drugs (for acne, psoriasis, sun
protection etc.). Drugs of abuse and treatment
possibilities.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
ANALYTICAL TOXICOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturers: Associate Professor Irena Žuntar,
PhD
Aim of course: Students will be introduced to
various branches of modern toxicology. Actual
problems of toxic materials in use and also
connected with environmental pollution and
work place will be presented. Also, the
purpose is to point out the importance of
analytical toxicology in medical clinical
practice and human health protection.
Prerequisite:
Enrolment requirements for this subject passed examination in Analitical Chemistry 2;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – none.
Course content:
Basic knowledge of toxicology, including all
kinds of damaging effects (short- and longterm), basic toxicokinetics, clinical
toxicology, ecotoxicology, toxogenetics,
toxinology, toxicology at work places,
regulatory toxicology, toxicology of frequent
poisons, computer simulation of various
processes and data basis construction.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
DRUG METABOLISM
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturer: Full Professor Branka Zorc
Aim of course: The goals of the lectures are
to impart knowledge about the basic
principles and mechanisms of the functioning
of drug metabolism enzymes and transport
systems, including biological and chemical
changes and actions of drugs and other
chemicals (xenobiotics) in relation to their
physicochemical properties (QSAR and QSPR),
drug-drug and drug-chemical interactions, as
well as use of the recombinant technology
and Internet databases for a better
understanding and predicting of biological
effects and drug interactions.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Pharmacology and Medicinal
Chemistry courses completed, conditions for
taking an examination in this subject - passed
examination in Medicinal Chemistry;.
Course content:
Introduction into drug metabolism and
biotransformations. Phase I reactions: biooxidations, bioreductions, hydrolysis, other
reactions. Enzymes and enzyme systems
(Peroxidases, Flavin Monooxygenases, CYP
enzymes, Molybdenum Hydroxylases,
Monoamine Oxidase, etc.). Phase II reactions:
methylation, glucuronidation, acetylation,
sulfation, amino acid conjugation, glutathione
conjugation. Stereochemical aspects. Prodrugs. Transport proteins: P-glycoprotein,
MRPs, BCRP, LRP, etc. (inhibition, induction,
stimulation). Pharmacogenomics. Inhibition,
induction, and stimulation of
biotransformations
Drug-drug and drug-chemical interactions.
Biotransformations and biological effects of
endo- and xenobiotics. Drug design: QSAR and
QSPR. Factors affecting rates of
biotransformation: kinetic approach to
enzyme inhibition/competition and enzyme
induction. Use of intra- and Internet
databases. Approaches to drug metabolism
studies: high throughput studies. Use of probe
drugs in vitro and in vivo. QSAR and QSPR
approaches and methods. Introduction to
practical work in the laboratory.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
78
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
SPECIAL TOPICS IN CLINICAL BIOCHEMISTRY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 5
Lecturer: Asociate Professor Nada Vrkić,
Associate Professor Dunja Rogić, Assistant
Professor Nada vrkić
Aim of course: To inform students about
special physiological and pathological
conditions and samples involved in the
profession of medical biochemist.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject –Clinical Biochemistry of the
Organs and Organic Systems 2 course
completed; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – passed
examination in Clinical Biochemistry of the
Organs and Organic Systems 2
Course content:
Inherited diseases: biochemical and molecular
bases of disturbances in the metabolism of
amino acids, carbohydrates and lipids;
laboratory tests and samples in screening and
diagnosis. Therapeutic drug monitoring:
routes of administration, absorption, free
versus bound drug, drug distribution, drug
elimination, sample collection, cardioactive
drugs, antibiotics, antiepileptic drugs.
Nutritional assessment: monitoring of the
overall parenteral nutrition and enteral
nutrition, macronutrients, micronutrients.
Prenatal and postnatal laboratory diagnostics,
clinical biochemistry and geriatric patient,
clinical biochemistry and paediatric patient.
Pregnancy: laboratory evaluation of maternal
and foetal health, physiological changes in
pregnancy, complications in pregnancy.
Biochemical markers of inflammation: types
of inflammation, mediators of inflammation,
sepsis and SIRS. Atopy and allergy:
hypersensitivity reactions of the immune
system, total IgE, allergen-specific IgE,
allergen-induced mediator release,
eosinophile cationic protein, allergen-specific
IgG. Emergency laboratory diagnostics.
Biological and analytical effects on laboratory
tests. Laboratory monitoring of
transplantation.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
TRANSFUSIOLOGY AND
IMMUNOHAEMATOLOGY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Renata Zadro
Aim of course: The course enables students
to learn the basics of transfusion medicine.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – passed examination in Haematology
2, Clinical Biochemistry of the Organs and
Organic Systems 2 course completed;
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – passed examination in Clinical
Biochemistry of the Organs and Organic
Systems 2.
Course content:
Principles of GMP, blood component
production, quality management and blood
safety. Red blood cells, thrombocyte and
granulocyte blood groups. Genetics of red cell
blood groups, red cell immunohaematology.
Blood components therapy;
Immunomodulation. Laboratory monitoring of
blood transfusion. Transfusion risks and
haemovigilance. Molecular methods in
transfusion medicine. Prion disease and
treating pathogens. Transfusion transmitted
diseases; Immunology of hepatitis B, C and
HIV infection. Serological detection of TTD
markers. Quality control in serological
laboratory. Validation of automated systems.
Statistical methods in transfusion units and
reporting. Basics of ISO 9001.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
FREE RADICALS AND ANTIOXIDANTS IN
HEALTH AND DISEASE
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 6
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Full Professor Lada Rumora
Aim of course: Expand the knowledge of
pathophysiology, teach students about the
role of oxidative/antioxidative systems;
students gain the basic knowledge of free
radicals and antioxidants and their specific
role in the pathogenesis of selected diseases.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject –passed examination in Biochemistry,
conditions for taking an examination in this
subject – none.
Course content:
Chemical characteristics of free radicals,
electronic structure, reaction of radicals, free
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radicals and environment; free radicals in the
organism, reactive oxygen species and
reactive species of nitrogen, mechanisms of
the influence of free radicals, antioxidants
and their mechanisms of action, antioxidants
as supplements; free radicals and apoptosis,
free radicals in carcinogenesis; free radicals
and alcoholism, free radicals and the disease
of the lungs, free radicals in the
atherogenesis, detection of free radicals: EPR
spectroscopy with spin traps, detection of
the products of free radicals reactions, free
radicals in toxicology.
Seminars include autonomous constructive
reviewing of scientific articles chosen by the
course leader.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
METALLOPROTEINS – STRUCTURE AND
MECHANISM
Course status: elective course
Study year: 3rd year
Semester: 6.
Number of ECTS points: 2
Lecturers: Associate Professor Mario
Gabričević
Aim of course: To introduce different
mechanisms (oxido-reductive, transport and
complexation) of the reactions of
metalloproteins and to demonstrate the
complexity of their reactions (within
seminars).
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Biochemistry.
Course content:
It is a problem-oriented course. Students
should acquire knowledge about different
types of metalloproteins and their role in
living organisms. Also, different methods of
metalloproteins research will be introduced in
lectures. Students will learn about
Fluorescence, UV-Vis and Stopped-flow/Rapid
Scan Spectrophotometry and use of kinetic
and thermodynamic data for specific
problems in the mechanisms of
metalloproteins.
Each student will have to prepare a
presentation on a particular metalloprotein,
focused on structure and mechanism. The
presentation will have to cover the last 3-4
years of scientific research on the chosen
metalloprotein and is expected to last at
least half-an-hour.
In the laboratory, students will run
experiments of the complexation of Fe(III) ion
with metalloprotein transferrin using the
Stopped-flow/RapidScan UV-Vis and Stoppedflow/RapidScan Fluorescence
Spectrophotometry as complementary
methods. They will investigate the influence
of temperature, pH, ionic strength,
concentration of reactants and concentration
of exogenous anions (HCO3-, H2PO4-, citrate,
NTA, etc.) on the rate of complexation on Cand N-terminal ends of transferrin. Based on
the results, they will propose the mechanism
of complexation.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
CULTURING OF CELLS AND CELL LINES
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Full Professor József Petrik
Aim of course: Students should be introduced
to the basic principles of working with animal
cell cultures and the application of certain
cell cultures in experimental medicine and
diagnostics.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in
Biochemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Possibilities of animal cell cultures
applications as a well-defined living system
that can be used for research and diagnostic
purposes. Techniques of cultivation and
application of human and animal cells and
tissues. Primary and continuous cell cultures.
Commercial cell lines. American Type Culture
Collection (ATCC) and other collections of cell
lines. Medium and serum composition, growth
factors and cytokines. Receptors, signal
transduction, second messengers, early and
late genes. Asynchrony and synchrony cell
populations, cell cycle. Clone growth and cell
survival. Cryoprotection of cells. Cytotoxicity
testing methods. Morphological and
biochemical techniques in detection and
quantification of cell death (apoptosis,
necrosis). Cell cultures in diagnostics
(cytokine determination). Humane cell
cultures in therapy, haematopoietic cell
cultures (autologous transplantation), stem
cells.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English and Hungarian
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COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Živka Juričić
Aim of course: The aim of the course is to
enable students to understand basic concepts,
models, principles and skills in the field of
interpersonal communication as well as to
grasp the importance of the effective
professional communication in different job
contexts and with various categories of
actors: co-workers, patients, other experts
and media.
Prerequisite: none.
Course content:
The course consists of five thematic parts
presented by the experts in the field of
general communication theory and in the
specific fields of professional communication
in health services, pharmacy and
biochemistry. In the introductory part general
concepts, models and principles of verbal and
nonverbal communication are presented.
Using the methods of experiential approach
to learning students are enabled to
understand the characteristics of two-way
communication and the relationship between
the different communication levels. The
communication process in the pharmacy is
described in four phases: establishing
contact, gathering data from the client,
giving advice, and closing the contact.
Students are exposed to the effective and
ineffective forms of communication with
clients using specially prepared video
materials. The range of specific
communication skills are demonstrated and
discussed: active listening, asking questions,
giving feedback. Students are also acquainted
with the statistical data regarding the errors
in drug administration and their harmful
consequences. Students can also observe
video materials showing patient reactions to
the information about their illness and to the
instructions about the drug use. Regarding the
professional communication with other
experts the presentation skills are described
extensively covering five phases: planning,
preparation of the text, practicing,
performance and answering questions.
Students are also informed about the purpose
and importance of public communication in
media regarding the new scientific
achievements in biochemistry and drug
production.
Teaching manner: seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
EPIDEMIOLOGY BASICS AND MICROBIAL
DIAGNOSTICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 7
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Associate Professor Ivan Kosalec
Aim of course: The course goals are to
acquaint students with epidemiological
methods, characteristics of infective and
invasive diseases, characteristics of the
routes of their transmission, with special
emphasis on practical work in the biochemical
laboratory. The course teaches aetiology of
infective diseases, microbiological diagnostics
of infective diseases, pathogenesis,
preventive measures and protection of
workers in the laboratory and in the
environment. Biochemical parameters and
basics of the therapy of bacterial, viral and
parasitic diseases are covered.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – passed examination in Microbiology
and Parasitology; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Basics of epidemiology, methods of study,
characteristics and role of major infectious
diseases. Microbiological methods of isolation
and identification of bacteria and fungi
(medicaly important yeasts, yeast-like fungi
and dermatophytes) based on their
micromorphological, cultural and biochemical
characteristics. Serological methods,
fagotypization of bacterial strains, as well as
epidemiological methods in the determination
of infections spreading will be explained.
Physiological flora of the human body (skin,
mucous membranes, mouth and throat,
intestine) and the isolation of pathogenic
bacterial species from urine, faeces and
blood. Performing laboratory tests on blood
parasites, faeces, cysts and eggs, and muscle
tissues, on trichina larvae, and life cycles in
host organs in transitory hosts of some other
parasites.
Teaching manner: lectures and laboratory
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOINORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 4th year
Semester: 8
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Željko Romić
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Aim of course: The aim of this course is to
familiarize the students with the role of
inorganic elements in biomedicine, the
function of metalloproteins and
metalloenzymes, and the thermodynamic and
kinetic properties of metal complexes.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – passed examination in General
Clinical Biochemistry; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Importance and the basic principles of
bioinorganic chemistry (thermodynamic and
kinetic characteristics of ligands that make
complexes with biomolecules). Use of
physical methods in bioinorganic chemistry (xrays, EPR, NMR), with special emphasis on
their application for diagnostic purposes in
biomedicine. Bioavailability and tissue
distribution of metals (intake, transport and
storage). Iron, copper and zinc in biological
systems. At cellular level, metalloproteins
will be clarified on the example of iron (iron
and transferrin complex bonding on the
receptor, internalization, storage of iron in
the form of ferritin as well as regulation of
the expression of transferrin and ferritin
receptors). Properties and the role of proteins
participating in electron transmission (Fe-S,
Cu). The role of metal ions as biomolecules
stabilizers (proteins, DNA, RNA), and as
obligatory components of the enzyme active
centre (carboxy peptidase A), nucleic acids,
prosthetic groups and coenzymes. Mechanisms
of toxicity of metals at cellular level
(example Hg). The role of metals in forming
free radicals (Fenton`s reaction).
Participation of metals in oxidative stress
prevention (part of antioxidative enzymes).
Biological role of Mo, W, V, Cr and Mn. The
role of calcium and magnesium in regulation
and biocatalytical processes. Application of
inorganic radionuclides in diagnostics;
therapeutic application of metals.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
BIOSTATISTICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 3
Lecturer: Associate Professor Krešimir
Sanković
Aim of course: Introduction to advanced
statistical methods. Application of statistical
methods required for experimental design and
data analysis present in biochemical and
medical laboratories and in clinical research.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – passed examination in Mathematics
and Statistical Analysis
Course content:
Correlation. Simple and multiple linear
regressions, Cox regression, Passing-Bablok
regression, Spearman rank correlation
coefficient. Analysis of variance, one-way and
two-way ANOVA. Analysis of frequencies, chisquare-test and Fischer’s exact test. Normal
distribution. Normality tests. Nonparametric
and distribution-free statistics, Wilcoxon
signed-rank test, Mann-Whitney test, KruskalWallis test, Friedman test. Experimental
design in clinical trials. ROC-analysis. Quality
control. Validation, process validation, assay
validation.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
INSTRUMENTS, PROCEDURES AND REAGENTS
EVALUATION
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Željko Romić
Aim of course: The aim of this course is to
introduce the students to the evaluation of
instruments, procedures and reagents. The
accuracy and validity of the analysis directly
depend on the established quality and
execution of supervision and control of the
high standards of all three segments.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Clinical
Biochemistry of the Organs and Organic
Systems 2; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
To explain and resolve the concepts of
verification, validation and evaluation; to
corroborate them with practical examples
through seminars. Importance of regular
evaluation – calibration of automatic
analyzers, instruments (spectrophotometers,
balances) and other equipment (pipettes,
cuvettes, thermometers). Application of ISO
standards in clinical laboratory. Internal and
external quality control. Benefits of engaging
external (foreign) quality controls. Precision,
specificity, sensitivity and accuracy.
Comprehension of basic statistical concepts in
regular quality control (mean, coefficient of
variation, standard deviation, median,
quartile). Means of testing and the control of
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reagents (quantitative and qualitative).
Techniques of automatic analyzer evaluation.
Estimation of the need and the selection of
the optimal analyzer to be incorporated in
the structure of the existing equipment.
Phases of automatic analyzer evaluation
(selection, clinical-laboratory evaluation,
cost-effectiveness). Overview of the other
factors that could influence the final result:
patient preparation, sampling, storage and
transport of specimens.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
INTEGRAL LABORATORY DIAGNOSTICS
COURSE
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Full Professor József Petrik
Aim of course: Develop an active attitude of
students towards setting out clinical cases,
interpretation of results during diagnosis, and
monitoring the course of pathological
condition and therapy.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Special Areas of Clinical
Biochemistry course completed; conditions
for taking an examination in this subject –
passed examination in Special Areas of
Clinical Biochemistry.
Course content:
The course should develop an active attitude
of students towards previous subject matters
of specialist knowledge through testing in the
form of seminars where students work out
preset problems – results connected with
different clinical cases.
Interpretation of results will include clinical
cases connected with determined
pathological conditions of the heart, kidney,
liver, stomach, pancreas, connective and
bone tissues, gastrointestinal system,
endocrine system, cardiovascular system,
hereditary and autoimmune disorders,
tumours, acid-base status, and monitoring
pregnancy, therapy, intoxication and drug
addiction.
Teaching manner: seminars
Assesment: written and oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English and Hungarian
ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT OF
MEDICAL BIOCHEMISTRY LABORATORY
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 3.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Zlata FlegarMeštrić
Aim of course: Introduce students to the
basic elements of organization and the quality
management system in a medical
biochemistry laboratory from the professional
and economic points of view and in
accordance with the statutory regulations of
the Croatian Health Care System.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Clinical
Biochemistry of the Organs and Organic
Systems 2; conditions for taking an none.
Course content:
Position of the medical biochemistry
laboratory in the Health Care System.
Professional and cost-effective ways of
running a medical biochemistry laboratory.
Role of the head of the medical biochemistry
laboratory in meeting the technical and
medical requirements, continuous quality
improvement and harmonization with high
quality standards. Basic cost accounting for
laboratory tests and the analysis of cost
benefits. Organization of laboratory
diagnostics in the Health Care System and
Health Care Insurance according to the
classification of medical biochemistry analysis
into general, specialistic and high differential
laboratory tests. Making plans and technical
specifications for new laboratory equipment
based on the number and classification of
desired laboratory tests. General principles of
good laboratory practice. Laboratory
information system and data managing system
as parts of the hospital information system or
autonomous. Medical biochemistry laboratory
requirements regarding safety and protection
of laboratory workers from occupationally
acquired infections and instrument
biohazards. Role of the medical biochemistry
laboratory in continuing education of medical
biochemists. The Health Care Act, deontology
and ethics in the Health Care System.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION IN LABORATORY
DIAGNOSTICS
Course status: obligatory course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9.
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Ivan Pepić
83
Aim of course: To introduce students in the
acts on healthcare and health insurance, and
in sub-acts regulating particular types of
health insurance; to introduce students in the
Act on Drugs and Medicinal Products, and in
sub-acts on the manufacture, testing,
registration, quality verification, and
marketing of drugs, medicinal and
homeopathic products; to introduce students
in the Act on Pharmacy (study in Pharmacy)
and Act on Medical Biochemistry Service
(study in Medical Biochemistry); and to
introduce students in the role of the Croatian
Chamber of Pharmacists and Croatian
Chamber of Medical Biochemists in the
organization of the pharmacy and medical
laboratory service.
Prerequisite: none
Course content:
Main characteristics of the Act on Health Care
with special reference to the different health
care levels. Health institution boards, health
institutions at particular levels of health care,
health institutes, reference centres, health
professionals, private practice, surveillance.
Main characteristics of the Act on Compulsory
Health Insurance with special reference to
the system of compulsory health insurance
implemented by the Croatian Institute of
Health Insurance, the scope of rights in health
care, the rights and obligations of the
compulsory health insurance users, and the
rights and obligations of the compulsory
health care providers. Main characteristics of
the Act on Optional Health Insurance with
special reference to supplementary,
additional and private health insurance. Main
characteristics of the Act on Occupational
Health Insurance with special reference to
specific health care of workers, rights in case
of work connected injury and occupational
disease. Act on Drugs and Medicinal Products
– the Act concept and main characteristics of
particular chapters on drugs, medicinal and
homeopathic products. By-laws regulating the
manufacture, testing, registration, quality
assessment, and marketing of drugs,
medicinal and homeopathic products. Main
characteristics of the Act on Pharmacy – the
Act concept and main characteristics of
particular chapters of the Act (on the study of
Pharmacy). Main characteristics of the Act on
Medical Biochemistry Service – the Act
concept and main characteristics of particular
chapters of the Act (on the study of Medical
Biochemistry). Main characteristics of the Act
on Drugs of Abuse Control – general
provisions, possession and turnover of drugs,
system for prevention of drug addiction and
assistance to drug addicts. Main
characteristics of the Act on Patient Rights
with special reference to the section on
patient rights proper.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
EMERGENCY LABORATORY DIAGNOSTICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 3
Lecturer: Associate Professor Dunja Rogić,
PhD
Aim of course: To introduce students to the
management of critically ill patients and the
role of clinical laboratory in this care,
synthesizing the knowledge in general,
specialist and high-differentiated medical
biochemistry.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Special Areas of Clinical
Biochemistry course completed; conditions
for taking an examination in this subject –
passed examination in Special Areas of
Clinical Biochemistry.
Course content:
Students will learn general principles of the
diagnostic procedure in critically ill patients,
general conditions necessary for procedure
planning, e.g., clearly set goals, work
program, laboratory organization and work
process, level of automation, need and ratio
of routine work and scientific research, and
evaluation of professional programs for the
future. Guidelines for test selection in
laboratory diagnosis of emergency states of
the heart, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, lung,
kidney, emergency neurological states,
emergency in paediatrics, and intoxicated
patients will be presented. Students will be
informed about the state-of-the-art in the
field of pathobiochemical effects of
psychoactive substances such as alcohol and
drugs; alcohol metabolism and
pathobiochemical effects of alcohol, genetic
basis of alcohol dependence; alcohol,
oxidative stress and fibrogenesis; mechanism
of action and effects of drugs on the central
nervous system; methods of drug
identification, cross-reactions with
medicines; falsifying samples for drug
detection. Studying a clinical problem with a
working diagnosis, students will learn how to
choose the laboratory tests that will enable
them to accept or reject the working
diagnosis, with due consideration of the
methodological and biological or interference
factors that may influence the result. The
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process of decision making for procurement of
new instruments, procedures and reagents,
phases of instrument evaluation, from
instrument selection (analysis of the
instrument role in the working process)
through clinical laboratory evaluation to
economic cost-benefit analysis (price, cost
per reagent/analysis, cost of
accessories/analysis, maintenance cost, total
cost/analysis) will be elaborated.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
APPLICATION OF RADIONUCLIDES IN
DIAGNOSTICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Marijana
Poropat
Aim of course: Get to know diagnostic and
therapeutic procedures of nuclear medicine,
indications for their clinical use. Working with
open sources of radiation and principles of
radiation protection.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Clinical
Biochemistry of the Organs and Organic
Systems 2; conditions for taking an
examination in this subject – none.
Course content:
Introduction, physical basics;
Instrumentation, processing of scintigraphic
data using a computer; Processing of
scintigraphic data, emission computerized
tomography; Immunoanalysis, production of
radionuclides and radiopharmacs;
Examination of thyroid gland; Radiation
protection at work; PET and inflammation;
Examination of renal function; Examination of
skeletal structure, detection of tumours;
Nuclear cardiology and pulmonology; Nuclearmedical examinations in gastroenterology;
Nuclear medicine in neurology; Cell
demarcation; Nuclear accidents.
Teaching manner: lectures
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
NUTRITION THERAPY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Assistant Professor Dubravka Vitali
Čepo
Aim of course: Introduction to dietotherapy;
dietotherapy of particular diseases. Diet as a
risk-factor for the development of health
disorders.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – passed examination in Nutritional
Biochemistry.
Course content:
Dietoprevention – the role of particular foodingredients (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates,
vitamins, minerals, dietary fibres) in
development of nutrition-related disorders
(hypertriglyceridemia, hyperlipoproteinemia,
atherosclerosis, hypertonia, diabetes type II,
rachitis, osteoporosis, cancer). Feeding
disorders. Obesity – risk factor for
development of cardiovascular diseases,
diabetes type II, cancer, etc. Body mass
index. Undernourishment – malnutrition,
maldigestion, malabsorption. Bulimia,
anorexia, compulsive overeating.
Dietotherapy of nutrition-related disorders.
Dietotherapy of genetic disorders of
metabolism. Disorders in essential amino acid
metabolism. Diet in Phe, Leu, Ile, Val, Lys,
Met metabolism disorders (phenylketonuria,
tyrosinemia, alkaptonuria, albinism,
leucinosis, propionacydemia,
methylmalonacydemia, hyperlysinemia,
homocystinuria, cystathinuria, cystinosis,
cystinuria). Disorders in carbohydrate
metabolism (diabetes I, intolerance,
malabsorption). Food intolerance. Nutritive
allergies; mechanisms, dietotherapy,
recommended and forbidden foods. Principles
of diet for target populations (infants, little
children, adolescents, elderly, pregnant
women, sportsmen).
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
RATIONAL LABORATORY DIAGNOSTICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturers: Full Professor Dubravka Čvoriščec
Aim of course: Make the student aware of
the significance of correct choice of
laboratory tests within the framework of
specific pathology. The future laboratory
professional needs to competently participate
in the rational choice of laboratory tests,
involving the importance test, features of the
analyte, preanalytical factors, possible
85
interferences, as well as analytical and
diagnostic sensitivity and specificity.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – Special Areas of Clinical
Biochemistry course completed; conditions
for taking an examination in this subject –
passed examination in Special Areas of
Clinical Biochemistry.
Course content:
Lectures:
Rationalization in health care. Proposals and
recommendations of international and
national professional societies. Screening of
healthy individuals. Preoperative screening of
patients. Alcohol and drug abuse. Rheumatic
disease. Cardiovascular diseases, Liver
diseases. Renal diseases. Endocrine and
metabolic diseases. Lung diseases. Pancreas,
stomach and gout diseases. Muscular diseases.
Malignant tumours: Electrolyte disorders.
Seminars:
Include autonomous reviewing of the
recommendations by different professional
societies.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian
POINT OF CARE TESTING
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 1.5
Lecturer: Associate Professor Dunja Rogić
Aim of course: Get students acquainted with
the principles, operative features and
implementation of point of care testing.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Special Areas of Clinical
Biochemistry course completed; conditions
for taking an examination in this subject –
passed examination in Special Areas of
Clinical Biochemistry.
Course content:
History of point of care testing. Scope and
rationale for implementation, cost-benefit
analysis. Linking various types of outcomes
with POCT. POCT as an instrument of health
care quality improvement. Clinical chemistry,
haematology and coagulation – tests to be
applied at the patient’s bedside. Technology
solutions – ion selective electrodes.
Maintenance free instruments, if such a thing
exists. Major common features of POCT
technologies. Operating various instruments,
technical assistance, analytical quality
control. Educating clinical staff for point of
care testing. Importance of pre-analytical
issues. A systemic approach to POCT
implementation in clinical institutions.
Establishing connectivity – central
surveillance, LAN communication.
Transferability of results. The consultant role
of laboratory professionals. Point of care
testing at the interface between clinic and
laboratory.
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
LABORATORY METHODS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturer: Aim of course: Physiological and
pathophysiological overview of the events in
humans on which the function of endocrine
organs and their hormones depends. This
knowledge is the basis of rationalized and
accurate laboratory diagnostics of
endocrinopathies.
Prerequisite: enrolment requirements for this
subject – Special Areas of Clinical
Biochemistry course completed; conditions
for taking an examination in this subject –
passed examination in Special Areas of
Clinical Biochemistry.
Course content:
Hormone determination (Methods: biological,
chemical and immunochemical. Methods
characterization: sensitivity, specificity,
interferences. Standardization: international
standards, units, quality control).
Endocrinology of pituitary and hypothalamus
(Endocrine regulation of pituitary function,
Pituitary diseases, Determination of pituitary
and hypothalamic hormones, Functional tests
for hypothalamus-pituitary-target tissue axis).
Endocrinology of adrenal glands (Endocrine
function regulation of adrenals, Disturbances
of adrenal function, Determination of
glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids and
catecholamines, Biochemical diagnosis of
congenital hyperplasia of adrenal gland).
Endocrinology of ovary and menstrual cycle
(Ovarian hormones, steroidogenesis and
maturation of the oocyte, Disorders of the
menstrual cycle and female infertility,
Determination of estrogens, gestagens and
androgens in infertility). Human reproduction
and clinical biochemistry (Ovulation
prediction by hormone estimation: methods
and reliability, Luteal function diagnosis,
Laboratory tests in early pregnancy).
Endocrinology of the placenta (Hormone
production in the foetoplacental unit,
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Placental hormones in pregnancy disorders
and prenatal diagnosis, Human
choriogonadotropin determination in ectopic
pregnancy and in biochemical screening for
Down syndrome). Endocrinology of the testis
(Endocrinology and gametogenesis, Testis
function disorders and infertility in men,
Determination of testosterone and diagnostic
parameters of ejaculate). Hormones as
tumour markers (Benign and malignant
tumours of endocrine organs, Ectopic
production of hormones).
Teaching manner: lectures, seminars and
laboratory
Assesment: written exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
COMPLEX GENETICS
Course status: elective course
Study year: 5th year
Semester: 9
Number of ECTS points: 2.5
Lecturers: Associate Professor Sanja Dabelić
Aim of course: To acquire knowledge and to
understand (i) the importance of human
genome variability, (ii) methods and
procedures in complex genetics studies, (iii)
the importance of molecular genetic
epidemiology for diagnosis, prevention and
therapy of complex genetic and (iv) social,
legal and ethical matters related to complex
genomics.
Prerequisites: enrolment requirements for
this subject – passed examination in Human
and Population Genetics; conditions for taking
an examination in this subject –none.
Course content:
Genomics and functional genomics. Complex
genetics. Genes and inheritance. Risk factors.
Life style, stress, environmental factors.
Genetics and aging. Interplay of genetic and
external factors – effects on health and
disease, resistance and longevity. Complex
genetic diseases. Molecular genetic
epidemiology. Biobanks. Pharmacogenetics
and pharmacogenomics. Databases. Molecular
diagnosis and genetic variability analysis –
application, purposes and social impacts.
Clinical practice in complex genetics.
Commercializing complex genetic diagnostics.
Genetic testing and public health. Complex
genetics - causality and accountability, legal
and ethical issues. Personalized medicine:
prevention, therapy and prognosis. Complex
genetics serves in health care and prevention
of disease. Complex genetic diseases:
importance of public information and
education.
Teaching manner: lectures and seminars
Assesment: oral exam
Teaching language: Croatian; teaching also
possible in English
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE 1 and 2
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 3rd and 4th
Semester: 6 and 8
Number of ECTS points: 2+3
Coordinators of practical training: Marija
Grdić Rajković, PhD
Aim of course: Organization and execution of
practical training in laboratories under
supervison.
Prerequisites: enrolment in the 6th semester
(Professional Practice 1) and in the 8th
semester (Professional Practice 2)
Course content:
3rd year: In the 30 hours with a mentormaster in medical biochemistry, students take
part in less demanding operations in the
medical-biochemical laboratory: they get
familiar with the recommended methods and
appertaining reference intervals in general
medical biochemistry for the following
laboratory tests: metabolites and substrates;
enzymes; electrolytes; trace elements;
proteins; lipids; and qualitative urine
analysis.
4th year: In the 60 hours with a mentormaster in medical biochemistry, students take
part in less demanding operations in the
cytological, microbiological and molecular
diagnostics laboratories. They learn and
independently apply simple methods of the
parasitology laboratory and molecular
diagnostics and cytology laboratories.
Teaching manner: field work under
supervision
Teaching language: Croatian
PROFESSIONAL TRAINING
Course status: obligatory course
Study years: 5th
Semester: 10th
Number of ECTS points: 30
Coordinators of practical training: Marija
Grdić Rajković, PhD
Prerequisites: enrolment in the 10th
semester; all obligatory courses passed.
Course content:
5th year: In the course Professional Training,
students acquire the knowledge and skills for
independent work in the medical-biochemical
laboratory. The program comprises two
professional units: medical biochemistry (500
hours) and hematology with coagulation (250
hours). Students acquire the knowledge and
skills for taking, identification and delivery
of samples, sample preparation for analysis,
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treatment of samples in biochemical,
hematological and coagulation analyzers.
Teaching manner: field work under
supervision
Teaching language: Croatian
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