BIOL 3201: Immunology
An overview of the structure and function of the immune system at the cellular and molecular levels. Topics include cells of the immune system and their interactions; innate immunity and inflammation; antibody structure, function and genetics; T-cells and cell-mediated immunity; MHC (major histocompatibility complex) and antigen presentation; regulation of the immune response; inappropriate immune responses (hypersensitivity and autoimmunity) and immunodeficiency syndromes.
Learning outcomes
- Describe the characteristics of the major cells and tissues of the immune system.
- Describe the innate, humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
- Demonstrate an appreciation for how the different parts of the immune system work together to fight infection.
- Discuss how inappropriate immune responses and immunodeficiency impact the human body.
- Read and interpret scientific research articles and books about immunology and communicate the results and findings in a variety of ways.
Course topics
- Module 1: Introduction and Overview of the Immune System
- Module 2: Cells, Tissues and Organs of the Immune System
- Module 3: Innate Immunity
- Module 4: Antibodies and B Lymphocyte Development
- Module 5: T Cell Receptors, MHCs and Antigen Presentation
- Module 6: Development and Activation of T Cells
- Module 7: Healing, Hypersensitivity, and Immunological Memory
Required text and materials
The following material is required for this course:
- Parham, P., (2021). The Immune System (5th edition.). New York: W.W. Norton and Co.
Type: Textbook. ISBN: 978-0-393-533354
Assessments
Please be aware that should your course have a final exam, you are responsible for the fee to the online proctoring service, ProctorU, or to the in-person approved Testing Centre. Please contact exams@tru.ca with any questions about this.
To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the mandatory final exam.
| Quiz 1: Introduction and Overview of the Immune System | 2.5% |
| Quiz 2: Cells, Tissues, and Organs of the Immune System | 3% |
| Quiz 3: Innate Immunity | 4% |
| Assignment 1: Modules 1, 2, and 3 | 20% |
| Quiz 4: Antibodies and B Lymphocyte Development | 2.5% |
| Quiz 5: T Cell Receptors, MHCs, and Antigen Presentation | 1.5% |
| Quiz 6: Development and Activation of T Cells | 3.5% |
| Assignment 2: Modules 4, 5 and 6 | 25% |
| Quiz 7: Healing, Hypersensitivity, and Immunological Memory | 3% |
| Assignment 3: Module 7 | 10% |
| Final Exam (mandatory) | 25% |
| Total | 100% |
Open Learning Faculty Member Information
An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.
