The aim of this unit is to provide students with an understanding of the theoretical and practical knowledge of immunology. Students will learn of the importance of the immune system in maintaining good health and preventing disease. Topics include: innate and adaptive immunity, the immune response to viruses and bacteria, T and B lymphocyte biology, immunoglobulin structure and function, antigen presentation, cytokines, biology of hypersensitivities (allergies and autoimmunity), and tumour immunology. Practical knowledge will include performing a cell suspension, knowing how to use a haemocytometer for cell counts and flow cytometry data analysis.

Unit details

Location:
St Albans
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
RBM3720

Prerequisites

RBM2540 - Pathophysiology 2

HBM2105 - Medical Microbiology and Immunity

Contact us

Find a different unit

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Conceptualise the importance of the immune system in good health and disease;  
  2. Deduce the mechanisms by which the innate and adaptive immune systems function;  
  3. Conceptually map all stages of the immune response from infection to immunity with a focus on explaining the function of T and B lymphocytes and antibodies; and  
  4. Develop laboratory skills, including cellular techniques, and record and analyse data and sources related to immune function.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Laboratory Work Laboratory theory and practical work (1000 words total) 20%
Presentation Group Oral presentation (1000 word equivalence) 30%
Test Test (1 hour) 20%
Exercise Case study (1500 words equivalent) 30%
Students must attend a minimum of 75% of all laboratories to pass the unit; Development of laboratory skills is an integral part of learning outcome 4 for this.

Required reading

Kuby Immunology 8th ed.
Punt, J, Stranford, S, Jones, P & Owen JA (2019)
WH Freeman

Where to next?

As part of a course

You can choose to study this unit as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to structure your course to include this unit.

Course Study as part of
Bachelor of Education Studies Biology (Ed Studies) - Major
Bachelor of Education (P-12) Biology (Education) - Major
Bachelor of Science Biotechnology - Major
Bachelor of Science Cell Biology/Microbiology - Discipline Minor
Bachelor of Biomedicine Immunopharmacology - Discipline Minor
Bachelor of Biomedical Science Molecular Cell Biology - Major

Study a single unit

This unit can be studied on its own, without enrolling in a full degree. Learn more about single units of study at VU.

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.