MICRO 3202 - Infection and Immunity IIIB (Biomedical Science)

This is an advanced course in immunology and virology. The course includes detailed examination of the cellular and molecular biology of the immune system, immune responses to microbial pathogens and other antigenic stimuli and immunisation against infections in humans and animals. Detailed attention will be given to major virus infections and typical host immune responses, the experimental models used to study viruses and antiviral therapies including chemotherapies and vaccination. Topics to be covered include: differentiation and activation of leukocytes; functions of leukocyte subsets; cell biology of antigen processing and presentation; molecular recognition of antigen; molecular and cellular bases of inflammation; signal transduction in immune cells; characteristics and functions of cytokines; mechanisms of immunoregulation; cellular communication and leukocyte traffic through tissues; production and use of monoclonal antibodies; local immunity at mucosal surfaces; immunity to infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses and parasites; inflammatory and autoimmune diseases such as asthma and arthritis; control and prevention of infections; strategies for the design and use of vaccines and gene therapy; important diseases will be considered as specific examples. Viruses to be studied will include examples chosen from those responsible for hepatitis, human immunodeficiency, respiratory and gastrointestinal infections and diseases of the skin and nervous systems.