The immune system comprises components that are involved in recognition of invading pathogens and other noxious agents, microbial killing and tissue homeostasis/repair. Therefore, deficiencies of the immune system are associated with increased susceptibility to infectious disease or a failure to control inflammation. The study of immunodeficiencies has in fact contributed extensively to our current understanding of normal structure and function in the immune system, and in turn has led innovative approaches to manipulate immune responses for therapeutic purposes.

This module seeks to explore the broad repertoire of both genetic (primary immunodeficiency) and environmental (secondary immunodeficiency) causes of impaired immunity, together with the consequences for the patient of such deficiencies and the insights provided into our understanding of the normal immune system. The treatment options that are available for these will be discussed, as well as approaches to immunomodulation including research which aims to transform gene and cell therapies into clinical applications.

Learning outcomes

In this module we aim to give you the framework and examples by which:

To understand the molecular basis and medical importance of selected humoral and cellular primary immunodeficiency syndromes.
	To understand contemporary research approaches to investigate the molecular mechanisms that underlie primary immunodeficiencies, with specific examples from recent discoveries.
	To understand the range of disorders associated with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, focusing on HIV infection and iatrogenic causes such as bone marrow transplantation or immunosuppressive medication.
	To explore how the study of mechanisms for immunodeficiency provide new insights into normal immunology and opportunities to modulate immune responses for therapeutic applications.
	To obtain an overview of therapies that target the immune system, including biological agents, T cell or DC therapies and advances in vaccination.