Pharmacology: an overview
Our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying
both normal function and drug action is advancing rapidly. The
science of pharmacology addresses these issues from an interdisiplinary
perspective.
By identifying the chemical mediators of physiologic events,
by measuring the effects of drugs at the cellular level, and
by interpreting the impact of these interactions on the function
of organ systems and the living animal, pharmacology is producing
remarkable new insights into physiology, pathology, and therapeutics.
Pharmacologists are in demand throughout the world in universities,
private industry, government agencies, and medical centers. Through
basic research, professional teaching, product development
and safety, environmental monitoring, and clinical testing,
pharmacologists
are seeking and applying knowledge that influences all levels
of biological organization. The science provides great opportunities
to contribute to biological knowledge and health.
The skills and level of expertise required of pharmacologists
can come only from programs that offer advanced research and
sophisticated methodology. These technical and scientific skills
are broadened by close interaction with faculty engaged in a
wide variety of basic research and clinical investigation. Minnesota
offers a unique combination of these attributes.
The laboratories, classrooms, and offices of the Department
of Pharmacology are located in the midst of the University of
Minnesota Medical School and Health Sciences complex, including
the new state-ofthe-art Basic Sciences and Biomedical Engineering
Building, overlooking the scenic Mississippi River and downtown
Minneapolis. Climate-controlled walkways connect the Department
with the Medical School, the College of Pharmacy, the School
of Dentistry, the School of Nursing, the School of Public Health,
the medical clinics, the Variety Club Children's Hospital and
the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview. This proximity
of health sciences activity enables a close working relationship
among
many
different
disciplines, and encourages attendance at a stimulating array
of open lectures and presentations.
Occupying approximately 40,000 square feet, the Department of
Pharmacology provides spacious laboratories equipped with the
latest technology. The expertise of its faculty members encompasses
most of the areas of the discipline, including biochemical (molecular
biology, gene therapy), physiological, and behavioral pharmacology.
Several faculty members hold joint appointments in other colleges
of the University of Minnesota, including the Medical School,
the College of Biological Sciences, and the College of Pharmacy.
Department of Pharmacology researchers are exploring all levels
of biological organization, extending from molecular interactions
to entire animal systems. Many collaborative research endeavors
are underway with colleagues in other departments, such as Medicinal
Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neuroanatomy,
Anesthesiology, Medicine, Family Practice, Pediatrics, Veterans
Administration Medical Center, Environmental and Occupational
Health, Psychology, and Psychiatry. Using the most modem and
sophisticated methodology available, faculty and student research
teams are contributing to the knowledge of physiologic systems
and to the health of future generations.
For more information, visit: What
is Pharmacology?
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