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BIOL3141 Infection and Immunity

Later Year Course

Offered By Biology Teaching and Learning
Academic Career Undergraduate
Course Subject Biology
Offered in First Semester, 2010 and First Semester, 2011
Unit Value 6 units
Course Description

This course will investigate host responses to microbial infections: innate reactions including the complement system, and phagocytic cells; adaptive immunity including clonal selection theory, antibodies, roles of B and T lymphocytes, antigens and antigen presentation, and molecular genetics of antigen receptors. Bacterial diseases, focussing on molecular explanations of pathogenesis and virulence of selected pathogens and toxins. Viruses and viral infections with an emphasis on replication strategies, host and tissue specificity, effects of viruses on cells (cell death, transformation, latency), and determinants of viral virulence. 

Indicative Assessment: Assessment will be based on:

  • Laboratory reports demonstrating: an understanding of concepts; analysis and interpretation of results; relation to published literature; and an ability to write clearly and concisely (40%; LO 2,3,4,5).
  • Written examination (60%; LO 1,2)

Honours Pathway Option (HPO)

The HPO may include participation in a journal club analysing and presenting recent advances in immunology.   Demonstrations of advanced viral immunology techniques may also be replaced by practical exercises.  The HPO will provide an opportunity to develop more complex interpretive skills and will provide an extension of the theory taught in the course.

Entry to the HPO will be subject to a quota, and will be determined based on grades obtained in the prerequisite subject, BIOL2142.

Honours Pathway Option (HPO) Assessment:

Written and oral reports replace lab reports. Written (and/or) Oral Reports (40%). Final exam 60%.

Learning Outcomes

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will:

1. Understand basic concepts in immunology, virology and microbiology.
2. Be able to apply this knowledge in both scientific and general settings.
3. Obtain laboratory skills in microbiology, immunology and virology.
4. Be able to source, understand and evaluate published literature relating to immunology, virology and microbiology.
5. Be able to analyse and interpret laboratory results, relate them to the published literature and write them up clearly and concisely.
Indicative Assessment

 

 

Requisite Statement

BIOL2142 (or BIOL2042)

Incompatibility

BIOL3041

Science Group C
Academic Contact Dr Aude Fahrer

The information published on the Study at ANU 2010 website applies to the 2010 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2009 website.

Updated:   13 Nov 2015 / Responsible Officer:   The Registrar / Page Contact:   Student Business Solutions