Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

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Unit Overview

Description

This unit builds on basic concepts of immunology taught at Level 2. It focuses on human immune responses. The lecture topics taught in the unit include structural features of the immune system; the innate and adaptive immune systems; effector cells and cytokines; the complement system; mucosal immunity; generation of diversity in adaptive immune responses; the structural and molecular basis of antigen recognition including the major histocompatibility complex; mechanisms of immune control of pathogens; and mechanisms used by viruses and bacteria to evade recognition by the immune system. The unit discusses the importance of the immune response in transplantation and organ rejection and in autoimmune diseases and tumour biology. In addition, it addresses the immunobiological basis of vaccination and vaccine design. Laboratory classes are undertaken to reinforce the material taught in lectures.

Credit
6 points
Outcomes

Students gain theoretical knowledge in the structure and function of the major effector cells of the immune system, and how diversity in antigen recognition is generated and maintained. They are able to describe how the host immune response is regulated, the immunopathological basis of autoimmunity, and the role of the immune response in prevention and control of infectious diseases. Practical and analytical skills and knowledge are gained via laboratory classes and by preparation and delivery of a written report.

Assessment



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Allison Imrie
Unit rules
Prerequisites
(MICR2208 Introductory Microbiology,
and MICR2209 Introduction to Infectious Diseases and Immunology).
or Biomedical Science major Level 2 units
Incompatibility
MICR3302 Infections and Immunity
and PATH3307 Pathology and Laboratory Medicine I.
Contact hours
lectures: 2–3 hours per week
labs/tutorials: 2–3 hours per week
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.