Pharmacology
Pharmacology is the study of how chemical agents affect living processes; the chemicals involved include agents such as endogenous hormones, neurotransmitters, and/or growth factors; toxic substances in our environment; and pharmaceutically developed drugs. Faculty mentors in this program are interested in the impact of toxicological agents on normal processes and their role in disease initiation as well as the molecular bases for the action of endogenous substances, with the intent of identifying novel therapeutic targets by revealing new insights into critical regulatory steps in signaling pathways that go awry in disease.
Contact Pharmacology

Aramandla Ramesh, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Biochemistry and Cancer Biology
School: Medicine
Phone: 615.327.6486
Email: aramesh@mmc.edu
Office Location: West Basic Science Building, Room 3010
Course Descriptions
Courses offered at Meharry Medical College:
- PHARM 705 Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- PHARM 722 Neuropharmacology
- PHARM 723 Toxicology
- PHARM 735 Research Problems in Pharmacology
- PHARM 736 Current Topics in Pharmacology
- PHARM 738 Carcinogenesis & Cancer Therapeutics
Courses offered at Vanderbilt University:
- PHAR 324 Receptor Theory, Cell-Surface Receptors and Signal Transduction Pathways
- PHAR 320 Pharmacological Targets and Mechanisms
- PHAR 322 Scientific Communication Skills
- PHAR 321 Principles of Drug Action
- PHAR 325 Cardiovascular Pharmacology
- PHAR 329 Pharmacology of Psychotropic Drugs
- PHAR 345 Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
- PHAR 346 Molecular Neurobiology
PHARM 705. CARDIOVASCULAR PHARMACOLOGY
The pharmacology of drug agents exerting major effects on the cardiovascular system is presented in lectures, discussions, and demonstrations. Mechanism of action, basis for therapeutic application, and limiting side effects of the drug agents are discussed. Research methodology utilized in studying these agents is also covered. 3 credit hours (Drs. Maleque & Barnett)
PHARM 706. GENERAL PHARMACOLOGY
The pharmacological basis of therapeutics is presented by means of lectures, conferences, and demonstrations. Emphasis is placed on the factors governing drug action; dose-response relationships; the relationship between chemical structure and pharmacological action; the problems associated with absorption, distribution metabolism, and elimination; and the mechanism of action of the common classes of drugs. Attention is also given to contra-indications, side effects, and toxic effects of these compounds. 5 credit hours.
PHARM 710. CELL SURFACE RECEPTORS
The course consists of interactive but lecture-like sessions. Exams are take-home/open-book and focus on critical thinking and using what is taught in a new experimental setting. The course begins with studies of receptor identification and characterization in simple cellular settings and then extends those studies to in vivo formats, using classical methodology. 2 credits hours.
PHARM 715. DRUG METABOLISM
This course covers in depth the concepts involved in metabolism of lipophillic molecules–identifying Phase I & Phase II enzymes; their location, mechanism, typical substrates, genetic variation, species variation, inhibition, and drug interaction and drug design. 2 credit hours.
PHARM 722. NEUROPHARMACOLOGY
This course presents an overview of neuropharmacology, including fundamentals of receptor theory, neurotoxicology, neurophysiology, and drug abuse. Mechanisms and problems concerned with neurotransmission are discussed. Emphasis is given to the neurochemical basis of CNS disorders and drug intervention. Lecturers, current literature, discussions are included. 3 credit hours.
PHARM 723. TOXICOLOGY
Principles involved in toxicity of drug and chemical agents are presented. Topics include xenobiotic biotransformation, toxicokinetics, chemical carcinogenesis, neurotoxicology, metal toxicity, toxic response of skin and respiratory system, and occupational toxicology. Toxicological mechanisms of action, rationale for therapeutic measures against effects of toxic chemical agents, the basis for toxicological pathology, and current issues in toxicology (toxicogenomics) are also covered. Course format includes lectures and student involvement in critical review of current literature. 3 credit hours.
PHARM 735. RESEARCH PROBLEMS IN PHARMACOLOGY
This is essentially an independent study; qualified students work with individual staff members in areas not covered in other available courses. 1-6 credit hours.
PHARM 736. CURRENT TOPICS IN PHARMACOLOGY
By means of lectures and/or discussion sessions, this course offers the opportunity to evaluate current advances in the field of pharmacology. Each student enrolled is required to write and submit a critical evaluation of an assigned, current, published research article. 3 credit hours.
PHARM 737. PHARMACOKINETICS
Offered as a module in Fundamentals of Pharmacology. This course module is designed to understand the pharmacokinetics principles that govern the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of drugs. Basic pharmacokinetics parameters are examined using one- and two-compartment modeling. In addition, applications of pharmacokinetics are examined with respect to clinical situations, and students are introduced to the use of computer programs in pharmacokinetics. 2 credit hours.
PHARM 738. CARCINOGENESIS & CANCER THERAPEUTICS
(cross-listing with Cancer Biology). This course covers the mechanisms underlying the carcinogenic process induced by chemical, viral, or physical agents. Major emphasis is focused on the mechanisms exploited in developing therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Lectures on clinical correlates are presented by clinical oncologists. 3 credit hours.
PHARM 741. FUNDAMENTALS OF PHARMACOLOGY (FALL)
This course is an introduction to in vivo physiological mechanisms, anatomical structure of organ systems, and regulatory feedback pathways responsible for drug metabolism and physiological homeostasis. Classical studies that shifted the paradigm in a particular area and contemporary research will be discussed to demonstrate clarity of thinking, focused experimental strategies leading to genuine discovery, and potential difficulties in interpretation of results of experiments (cross listing with PHAR 320. Pharmacological Targets and Mechanisms – Vanderbilt University). 4 credit hours, Fall.
PHAR 799. RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY (FALL, SPRING & SUMMER)
Students are required to conduct original research, culminating in the preparation and defense of a dissertation. 1-12 credit hours, Fall, Spring & Summer.
PHAR 324. RECEPTOR THEORY, CELL-SURFACE RECEPTORS, AND SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION PATHWAYS (SUMMER)
Course covering structure and function of cell-surface receptors and the molecular bases by which they activate cellular function. Topics include receptor identification; quantitation of simple and complex binding phenomena; molecular bases for receptor coupling to GTP-binding proteins; the structure and function of ligand-operated ion channels, receptor tyrosine kinases, and receptor-induced signal transduction cascades receptors as oncogenes and proto-oncogenes. 1-3 credit hours, Summer.
PHAR 320. PHARMACOLOGICAL TARGETS AND MECHANISMS (FALL)
Introduction to in vivo physiological mechanisms, anatomical structure of organ systems, and regulatory feedback pathways responsible for drug metabolism and physiological homeostasis. Classical studies that shifted the paradigm in a particular area and contemporary research are discussed to demonstrate clarity of thinking and focused experimental strategies leading to genuine discovery, as well as potential difficulties in interpretation of results of experiments. 1-10 credit hours, Fall.
PHAR 321. PRINCIPLES OF DRUG ACTION (SPRING)
The mechanisms of drug action are taken up in a systematic manner. Course includes didactic lectures and parallel, guided readings on drug discovery and design, based on current advances in basic science and clinical research. Spring.
PHAR 322. SCIENTIFIC COMMUNICATION SKILLS (FALL)
Techniques in effective oral communication of scientific research as well as practical experience in research and literature presentation and in the preparation of grant proposals. 1 credit hour, Fall.
PHAR 323. EXCITABLE MEMBRANES IN NERVE AND MUSCLE
Recent findings concerning the structure, function, and pharmacology of ion channels. Topics include the relationship between amino acid sequence, protein subunit structure, and function of both voltage- and ligand-gated channels; the relationship between channel structure and pharmacology; the interaction of drugs with channels and receptor/channel proteins, with special emphasis on the interaction of compounds with different functional channel states; indirect coupling between ion channels and neurotransmitter and hormone receptors. Classes include both presentations by the instructors and discussion of recent publications by students.
PHAR 325. CARDIOVASCULAR PHARMACOLOGY
Cardiovascular physiology and pharmacology from the molecular to the organismal level. Classic experimental studies, molecular studies, and clinical observations are presented to demonstrate the power of interdisciplinary approaches in answering complex questions in biology. Students have the opportunity to identify specific areas or pathophysiologic states for emphasis. Topics covered: development of the cardiovascular system, regulation of cardiac contractility and electrophysiology, blood pressure regulation, coagulation, and select cardiovascular pathophysiologies. 2 credit hours.
PHAR 329. PHARMACOLOGY OF PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS
An advanced course that focuses on the mechanism of action of CNS-active drugs, with extensive literature reading and student presentations.
PHAR 345. CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR NEUROSCIENCE
An overview of major neural networks, including examples from motor and sensory systems, as well as higher cognitive and affective functions. Studies of neural development move from an examination of neurogenesis, cell fate, and phenotype development to an analysis of invertebrate models and how they have advanced our understanding of mechanisms involved in axonal guidance, synapse formation, and apoptosis. Additional lectures covering synaptic and systems plasticity and models of neural networks and learning and memory are provided. Emphasis is placed on the integration of anatomical, biochemical, and physiological information. 4 credit hours.
PHAR 346. MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY
Molecular components and interactions that regulate neuronal development, signaling, and disease. Classic molecular analysis of neurobiological processes is coupled with detailed studies of contemporary literature to provide students a sound foundation for understanding the molecular bases underlying the development and function of the nervous system. Topics covered include: development of neuronal identity, axonal transport, growth factors and cell death, axon guidance and synapse formation, electrical and chemical neurotransmission, regulation of neuronal excitability, and genetic analysis of signaling and neural disorders. 3 credit hours.
Curriculum & Course Requirements
Students are expected to complete the requirements for the Ph.D. degree in 5-6 years.
* DR: Departmental Required Course
* DE: Departmental Elective Course
First Year: Core Curriculum
Second Year: Fall Semester
Name of Course:
General Pharmacology (DR)
Neuropharmacology (DE)
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
Pharmacology Seminar (DR)
Carcinogenesis & Cancer Therapeutics (DE)
# of Credit Hours:
5
3
1-12
2
3
Name of Course:
General Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
5
Name of Course:
Neuropharmacology (DE)
# of Credit Hours:
3
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
1-12
Name of Course:
Pharmacology Seminar (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Name of Course:
Carcinogenesis & Cancer Therapeutics (DE)
# of Credit Hours:
3
Second Year: Spring Semester
Name of Course:
Cell Surface Receptors (DR)
Drug Metabolism (DR)
Pharmacokinetics (DR)
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
Pharmacology Seminar Course (DR)
Cardiovascular Pharmacology (DE)
# of Credit Hours:
2
2
2
1-12
2
2
Name of Course:
Cell Surface Receptors (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Name of Course:
Drug Metabolism (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Name of Course:
Pharmacokinetics (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
1-12
Name of Course:
Pharmacology Seminar Course (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Name of Course:
Cardiovascular Pharmacology (DE)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Second Year: Summer Semester
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
6
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
6
Third Year: Fall Semester
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
Pharmacology Seminar (DR)
Preparation of Ph.D. Candidacy Proposal
General Electives
# of Credit Hours:
1-12
2
0
varies
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
1-12
Name of Course:
Pharmacology Seminar (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Name of Course:
Preparation of Ph.D. Candidacy Proposal
# of Credit Hours:
0
Name of Course:
General Electives
# of Credit Hours:
varies
Third Year: Spring Semester
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
Pharmacology Seminar (DR)
PhD Candidacy Exam
# of Credit Hours:
1-12
2
0
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
1-12
Name of Course:
Pharmacology Seminar (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Name of Course:
PhD Candidacy Exam
# of Credit Hours:
0
Third Year: Summer Semester
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
Ph.D. Candidacy Exam
# of Credit Hours:
6
0
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
6
Name of Course:
Ph.D. Candidacy Exam
# of Credit Hours:
0
Subsequent Years: Fall & Spring Semesters
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
Pharmacology Seminar (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
1-12
2
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
1-12
Name of Course:
Pharmacology Seminar (DR)
# of Credit Hours:
2
Subsequent Years: Summer Semesters
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology(DR)
# of Credit Hours:
6
Name of Course:
Research in Pharmacology(DR)
# of Credit Hours:
6
Special Features
Pharmacology Retreat:
Each fall, the Department of Pharmacology at Vanderbilt University holds a retreat in conjunction with the Pharmacology graduate program at Meharry Medical College at a nearby state park. Full participation in the retreat is required for all graduate students who are in the Pharmacology program at Meharry Medical College. The speakers at the retreat are students and postdoctoral fellows. Each of the talks by the students is ten minutes in length and focuses on future research plans rather than past accomplishments. Although a few minutes of the presentation are used to explain the research problem under study, its importance, and what has been learned to date, the students are expected to spend the majority of the presentation explaining what they want to accomplish or learn in the coming year and what strategies they will employ to do so. This emphasis on the future tense encourages a great deal of input, discussion, and critical consideration of the project at a level of intensity that would not necessarily occur following presentations of already completed work. Furthermore, by learning the methodologies being established in different laboratories, participants in the training program can more readily learn from one another, rather than “reinvent the wheel.” Important collaboration and “crash courses” in different technologies have emerged because of this retreat, and this mode of scientific exchange has fostered an acceleration of the productivity of graduate students and participating mentors alike.
Pharmacology Graduate Students Enrichment Club:
This club is run by Meharry Medical College students and mentored by Dr. Eltom. It meets every two weeks in the West Basic Science Building 3rd floor conference room to heavily discuss books/articles and develop an in-depth understanding of concepts in pharmacological sciences or relevant biological sciences. In the past, discussions have covered a textbook of receptor pharmacology; a workshop for Reference Manager and its application in citation management for writing fellowships, theses, and manuscripts; PowerPoint presentation skills; ask-the-expert sessions, to discuss a technique by somebody who does the assay routinely, either graduate student or invited guest; and other topics. As some of these topics and workshops are integrated into required elements of the core curriculum for the Ph.D., graduate students in the Pharmacology program identify the needs addressed in this enrichment club on an annual basis.