Immunology in Health and Disease provides an overview of the human immune system. Starting at the molecular level (e.g. antigen recognition, antibody diversity), outlining what is known about cellular interactions within the immune system (e.g. cytokines and immunoregulation) and concluding with a consideration of the role of the immune system in host defence, its role in disease, and its possible role in determining ecology and evolution of the species. The module will cover the anatomy and constituents of the immune system and then consider the general principle of how an immune response is generated, beginning with the initial innate immune response to the development of acquired immunity. These concepts will be placed in context: how the immune system fights pathogens, how inappropriate responses can cause disease and how the immune system can be manipulated therapeutically. The module will develop from a basic to a more in depth understanding, with emphasis throughout placed on current developments in this fast moving field.

Aims

To provide students with a sound understanding of the fundamental aspects of immunology with the focus on current cutting-edge research.

In particular:

To provide students with up to date knowledge on immunological processes including: innate and adaptive immunity, development of the immune system, immune regulation, defence against pathogens and dysregulation of the immune system (immunodeficiency, autoimmunity, chronic infections, ageing, cancer)
	To introduce students to the current research in this field and to the key tools and techniques used
	To make students aware of the link between fundamental research and clinical applications
Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, you will be able to:

Examine and discuss key aspects of immunology related to the function of immune system in health and disease
	Compare, contrast and appraise essential tools and techniques used to investigate these key aspects. Recognise how new knowledge can be advanced by new techniques
	Assess the context of seminal scientific papers and the impact on the field; recognise that scientific knowledge is continuously evolving and critically appraise scientific evidence