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Introduction to the Immune System: This week establishes the foundational principles of immunology, tracing its historical context and differentiating between the two pillars of defense: the Innate and Adaptive immune systems. The core focus is on identifying the essential cells (e.g., lymphocytes, phagocytes), tissues, and organs that constitute the immune architecture, setting the stage for subsequent deep dives into molecular mechanisms.
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Innate Immunity I (Cellular Components): The focus shifts to the immediate, non-specific line of defense, exploring the critical roles of cellular components. We will study the mechanisms of phagocytosis by macrophages and neutrophils, and the functions of Dendritic Cells and Natural Killer (NK) cells. A major emphasis is placed on how these cells utilize Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRRs), such as Toll-Like Receptors (TLRs), to recognize conserved microbial structures (PAMPs/DAMPs).
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Innate Immunity II (Molecular Components & Inflammation): Building on the cellular mechanisms, this session analyzes the soluble components of innate immunity. Key attention is given to the Complement system (classical, lectin, and alternative pathways) and its biological effects, alongside an in-depth study of cytokines and chemokines—their classification, receptor signaling, and their central role in regulating the acute inflammatory response.
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Antigens and Antigen Presentation: This week is crucial for understanding the transition to adaptive immunity, defining the characteristics of antigens (immunogenicity vs. antigenicity). The primary topic is the structure, function, and importance of the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) I and MHC II molecules in processing and presenting peptide fragments to T lymphocytes, highlighting the constraint of T-cell recognition.
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T-Cell Development and TCR Structure: We explore the fascinating process of T-lymphocyte development in the thymus, including the selection mechanisms (positive and negative selection) that shape the T-cell repertoire. Detailed analysis is given to the structure of the T-Cell Receptor (TCR) and the complex genetic process of V(D)J recombination that generates immense diversity.
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B-Cell Development and Antibody Structure: This session focuses on B-lymphocyte development in the bone marrow and the creation of the humoral immune response. Students will dissect the structure of Immunoglobulins (Antibodies), their diverse functions, and the mechanisms of V(D)J recombination, somatic hypermutation, and class switching that produce highly specific and diverse antibody isotypes.
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T-Cell Activation and Differentiation: The activation of T-cells is examined through the three-signal model (TCR engagement, co-stimulation, and cytokine environment). The main focus is on the differentiation pathways of Helper T (T
H
) cells into distinct subsets (T
H
1,T
H
2,T
H
17,T
reg
), and the mechanisms employed by Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTLs) to induce target cell death.
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8 |
B-Cell Activation and Humoral Immunity: This week covers the full spectrum of B-cell activation, contrasting T-dependent and T-independent responses. The lecture will detail the dynamics of germinal center reactions, including affinity maturation and the formation of long-lived memory B cells and antibody-secreting plasma cells, cementing the concept of humoral memory.
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Immunological Tolerance and Regulation: A critical topic, this session explores how the immune system avoids attacking self-tissues. We examine the mechanisms of central and peripheral tolerance, emphasizing the essential regulatory role of T
reg
cells. The molecular underpinnings of immune system dampening, including Immune Checkpoints and inhibitory receptors, will be discussed.
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Immunity to Pathogens (Infection Immunology): This session applies acquired knowledge to real-world threats, detailing the distinct immune responses required to control viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Crucial attention is paid to the sophisticated immune evasion mechanisms utilized by pathogens and the immunological principles guiding successful vaccine development and efficacy.
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Immunopathology: Autoimmunity and Immunodeficiency: This week covers dysregulated immune function, examining the genetic and environmental factors contributing to autoimmunity and reviewing key autoimmune disorders (e.g., Lupus, Type 1 Diabetes). The session also analyzes the causes and consequences of primary and secondary immunodeficiencies (e.g., AIDS).
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Hypersensitivity and Allergy: We delve into the concept of pathological immune responses, classifying the four types of Hypersensitivity reactions (Type I, II, III, IV) and their molecular basis. The focus includes the immunopathology of allergy, examining the role of mast cells, IgE, and therapeutic immunological approaches.
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Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy: The dynamic relationship between the immune system and cancer is explored, focusing on immunosurveillance and the suppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment. The scientific principles behind modern immunotherapy strategies are thoroughly examined, including Checkpoint Inhibitors and the development of CAR T-cell therapy
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Transplantation Immunology and Future Directions: The final session focuses on the fundamentals of transplantation immunology, detailing types of graft rejection and the mechanisms of immunosuppressive therapies. The week concludes by exploring cutting-edge and emerging research areas, such as mucosal immunity, the interaction between the microbiota and the immune system, and technological advancements shaping the future of the field.
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