IMM3031

Molecular and cellular immunology ( 6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr John Emmins and Associate Professor Jennifer Rolland

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit examines how the immune system functions to protect the host from infection. The cells, tissues and molecules of the immune system will first be introduced. Aspects of adaptive immunity will then be discussed: how the immune system recognises and discriminates among different molecules; how individual cells develop so that each bears a unique receptor directed at foreign, not at self, molecules; and how these cells are activated to provide effective defence when they encounter microbes. Essential techniques of immunology will be presented including the relevance of genetic engineering. Skills will also be developed in searching the literature and in assignment writing.

Objectives: On completion of this unit students will appreciate the major cells and organs of the immune system; comprehend the integrated nature of the immune system; understand the generation of T and B lymphocytes and their specific antigen receptors; understand the basic mechanisms involved in humoral and cellular immune responses; appreciate the application of genetic engineering to the understanding of immune responses; appreciate the relevance of the immune system to infection and disease; be able to source information in the scientific literature and on the web concerning topics related to the discipline; have developed writing skills by the preparation of an assignment.

Assessment: One assignment (2000 words): 15% + Two multiple choice examinations during semester: each 10% + One 3-hour examination: 65%

Contact Hours: Four 1-hour lectures per week and one 1-hour tutorial per fortnight

Prerequisites: One level-two biological science unit + Recommended: a level-one unit in both biology and chemistry

Corequisites: IMM3051 is highly recommended

Prohibitions: BME3011