autumn 2015
BIO-3609 Basal and Comparative Immunology - 10 ECTS

Type of course

The course can be taken as a singular course.

Admission requirements

Student must have pre-knowledge corresponding to BIO-1001 Cell and molecular biology, and BIO-2601 General microbiology.

Course content

This course aims to provide an understanding of the components and principal workings of the vertebrate immune system and the lectures will focus both on mammalian species and on fish. The course will particularly discuss on how the immune system protects the body from microorganisms like virus, bacteria, fungi and parasites. We will also examine how immune responses are initiated and terminated, how the immune system "remembers" a pathogenic intruder such that it can respond stronger at subsequent infections (the basis for vaccination). We will also discuss the basis for the immune system to recognize virtually any structure it is exposed to and why the immune system will vigorously reject transplanted foreign tissues.

Objectives of the course

After successful completion of the course the students should: • Know the key differences between inborn (innate) and acquired (adaptive) immunity • know the principal organization of lymphoid organs of mammals and fish • know about the most important immunological cell types and their effector mechanisms • know which function various cytokines and the complement system has • know the essential molecules - B and T cell receptors and MHC Class I and II • be able to explain the mechanisms that provide the B and T cells with the great repertoire of molecule detection • have knowledge about the principles for clonal selection of antigen-specific lymphocytes • know the main differences in the defense against bacteria and viruses • be able to explain the immunological principles that vaccines is built on

Language of instruction and examination

Norwegian and English

Teaching methods

Lectures and colloquia.

Assessment

Three hours written exam. A-E for passed, F for not passed. A re-sit exam/postponed exam will be arranged early in the following semester, for candidates who failed the exam, or who, for valid reasons, were unable to attend.

Recommended reading/syllabus

The course text book is: Basic Immunology: Functions and disorders of the immune system. Abul K. Abbas & Andrew H. Lichtman. Third Edition. Review papers within fish immunology will be presented at the course.

Lecture presentations are also considered required reading.

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  • About the course
  • Campus: Tromsø |
  • ECTS: 10
  • Course code: BIO-3609