Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives On the completion of this subject students will understand the manner in which lymphocytes are selected during development for their ability to respond to foreign antigens, but yet not to destroy `self' molecules; review practical applications of immunology; explain disease processes such as the mechanisms of autoimmune tissue damage, graft acceptance and rejection; understand how the immune system combats pathogenic organisms and how these organisms may evade the immune system's defences; evaluate the role of the immune system in controlling tumours; perform accurately clinically relevant tests and assays of lymphocyte function; design, conduct and evaluate a six week research project; write up the report of the project in a manner similar to that of a formal manuscript; present their data as a formal presentation to the remainder of the class; understand the importance of meticulous planning and implementation of the experimental protocols.
Synopsis IMM3022 consists of (i) effector mechanisms and regulation of the immune response; (ii) immunopathology - allergy, autoimmune diseases, transplantation, immunodeficiency diseases, leukaemia and lymphoma, tumour immunology, impact of the environment on immunity; (iii) applied immunology - use of immunological methods in hospital and other applied fields and in biological research; (iv) host-parasite interactions - immunity to pathogenic microorganisms.
Assessment Written examination: 50% + Multichoice examination: 20% + Examination of practical course: 30%