This module will deal with the structure and function of the human immune system and it's role in health and disease. This module aims to provide the student with a knowledge of immunology including; cells and organs of the immune system, the immune responses, T- and B-cell function, antibody structure and function, the role of the immune system in disease, and a knowledge of the use of antibodies as analytical tools. This module also aims to identify the beneficial aspects of the immune system, including protection against disease, and detrimental effects on the body caused by inappropriate immune responses. The module will be primarily delivered by formal lectures and case studies. Finally, this module will introduce the student to the role of the clinical laboratory in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of immunological disorders.
Introduction to Immunology:
Understanding the Immune System; Immune System functions, Innate Immunity, Adaptive Immunity, Phagocytosis, Programmed Cell Death and Apoptosis.
Cells of the Immune System:
Hematopoesis and Immune Cell Production, Monocytes and Macrophages, T-Lymphocytes, B-Lymphocytes, The Granulocytes.
Organs of the Immune System:
The Thymus, Bone Marrow, Structure and function of the Lymphatic System, The Lymph nodes.
Products of the Immune System:
Antibody Structure and Function, Antibody Classes and Sub-Classes, Antigen-Antibody Interaction, Cytokines, Interleukins, Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Chemical Messengers.
Activation of the Immune Response:
Phagocytosis and Antigen Presentation (APC), T-Cell activation, B-Cell activation, Plasma Cells and Antibody Production, Mast Cell activation.
Problems with the Immune System:
Hypersensitivity reactions; Hay Fever, Asthma; Allergy and the Immune Response, Food allergies, Anaphylactic shock; Autoimmune Diseases, HIV and AIDS, Tissue and Organ Transplantation.
Antibodies as Diagnostic Tools:
Basic principles of Bioassay laboratory techniques, Applications. Immunoassays; Competitive and Sandwich ELISA assays; Dot-Blott Analysis, SDS Page and Western Blotting.
Methods used to achieve the module learning outcomes will include lectures, tutorials, laboratory practicals, interpretation of data, case studies, problem-solving exercises, video presentations, self-directed learning and computer-based learning.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Formal Examination | 70 |
| Other Assessment(s) | 30 |