Knowledge of basic biochemistry and cell biology

The first lectures will introduce the major elements of the human immune systemintroducing for example phagocytes, B cells, T cells, antigen presenting cells,complement, antibodies, cytokines and Toll-like receptors. The complex,multifactorial, co-ordinated responses of the immune system will be explored with aninitial, in depth focus on acute inflammation. Immune tolerance, T cell development and T cell and B cell effector mechanisms will also be covered. Once the foundations of the immune system are covered, the knowledge acquired will be used to evaluate the involvement of the immune system in pathology (e.g. hypersensitivity) and reflect on the contribution of immunotechnology to modern medicine (e.g. vaccination). The lectures are supported by interactive tutorial sessions. The practical sessions associated with the module will incorporate a variety of immunological techniques and are embedded to support and enhance the lecture material delivered in addition to developing relevant practical skills.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to
LO1: Illustrate the complex and co-ordinated processes involved in acuteinflammation
LO2: Utilise a problem-solving approach to demonstrate diagnostic techniques andanalyse numerical data
LO3: Evaluate the contribution of the molecular approach to the study of immunology
LO4: Provide a rationale for the involvement of the immune response in pathology
LO5: Critically reflect on the use of immunotechnology in modern medicine