BIOL 338 - Immunity and Pathogenesis

FC NSMA QFR

4 credits
In order to survive in a volatile world full of friends and foes, living organisms require mechanisms to defend themselves while also developing mechanisms to invade (or evade) these defenses. This course will serve as an introduction to the human immune system and the model systems we use to study immunity more broadly. We will also examine the molecular and cellular mechanisms pathogens use to elicit, avoid, and attack immune functions in their hosts. Topics will include: innate and adaptive immunity, pathogen-host interactions, autoimmune diseases, immunotherapy, and vaccinations. We will use real world examples from case studies to examine the clinical aspects of immunology and the practical application of the topics covered in this course. Students will be expected to read primary literature and critique the ways in which we research and understand the immunity, culminating in a research grant proposal that demonstrates mastery of the subject and potential for future novel research.

Prerequisites: BIOL 213 or CHEM 254.