Immunology (BIO250)

The course gives an introduction to the innate and adaptive immune system, with emphasis on the human immune system.


Course description for study year 2024-2025

Facts

Course code

BIO250

Version

1

Credits (ECTS)

10

Semester tution start

Autumn

Number of semesters

1

Exam semester

Autumn

Language of instruction

Norwegian

Content

NB! This is an elective course and may be cancelled if fewer than 10 students are enrolled by August 20th for the autumn semester.

The course starts with an overview of the immune system, the components involved and its functions. The complement system and cells of the innate system is followed by a description of B cell and T cell immunity (immunological memory and tolerance). Thereafter, the difference between epithelial immunity and systemic immunity. Lastly, important clinical aspects, including autoimmunity, atopy and immunodeficiencies, immune modulating therapy using vaccines, immune suppressive and immune stimulating drugs.

Learning outcome

  • Understand the build-up and main functions of the immune system
  • Understand important differences between the innate and the adaptive immune system
  • Have knowledge on the functions of the innate immune cells and the complement system
  • Have knowledge on the concepts behind production of lymphocytes, lymphocyte activation and clonal selection
  • Have knowledge on the function of B and T cells
  • Know how the immune system cooperates to fight an infection
  • Have basic knowledge on the concepts for immune modulation, including vaccines, immune suppressing and immune stimulating drugs.

Required prerequisite knowledge

None

Recommended prerequisites

BIO100 Cell Biology, BIO110 Anatomy and Physiology

Exam

Form of assessment Weight Duration Marks Aid
Written exam 1/1 3 Hours Letter grades None permitted

The exam is digital and consists of multiple choice questions.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Jens Vikse

Head of Department:

Ingunn Westvik Jolma

Method of work

Lectures and group discussions, combined 4 hrs/week.

Open for

Biological Chemistry - Biotechnology - Bachelor's Degree Programme
Admission to Single Courses at the Faculty of Science and Technology
Biological Chemistry - Master of Science Degree Programme

Course assessment

There must be an early dialogue between the course supervisor, the student union representative and the students. The purpose is feedback from the students for changes and adjustments in the course for the current semester.In addition, a digital subject evaluation must be carried out at least every three years. Its purpose is to gather the students experiences with the course.

Literature

The syllabus can be found in Leganto