This course will focus on the molecular basis of the immune system. The antigen-specific immune response will be considered in depth. The course will cover aspects of development and differentiation of B and T lymphocytes, antigen processing and presentation, lymphocyte activation and immune regulation. Topics for further study will be selected from: immunotherapy, autoimmunity, transplantation, immunodeficiency, mucosal immunity, lymphoproliferative diseases, cytokines, tumour immunology, and viral immunology. Practical work will focus on immunology related to disease states involving 'research directions' seminars given by researchers at ANU, class discussions or tutorials, and literature research assignments.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Predict how the immune system will respond to disease, cancer or pathogens
2. Think strategically about developmental aspects of immunity and potential immunotherapies
3. Apply diagnostic reasoning to understanding disease states and their immunological cause
4. Interpret experimental data on research in immunology
5. Read the literature critically to assimilate views on new findings

Assessment will be based on:

• Exam (60%; LO 1, 2, 3, 4)
• Assignments, reports or seminars (20%; LO 1, 2, 3, 4)
• Major essay or mid-semester exam (20%; LO 3, 4, 5)

Two lectures and up to three hours of practical, seminar or tutorial work per week.

BIOL2161 (or BIOL2061) and BIOL2142 (or BIOL2042). Students are strongly advised to have completed BIOL3141 (or BIOL3041).

BIOL3044

BIOL3141 (or BIOL3041)