Immunology, molecular biology, Toll-like receptors, natural killer cells, Notch, immune deficiencies

Starting from the knowledge acquired from the basic immunology course (2th bachelor Biomedical Sciences), the differentiation and function of defined cell subpopulations from the innate and the acquired immune system will be addressed in detail. There will also be a focus on immune deficiencies and the generation of tumors from immune cells.

• Toll-like receptors: expression, signaling, induction of TNFalpha and IFNgamma production. Role of Toll-like receptors in sepsis. TNFalpha and IFNgamma receptors and signaling.
• Natural killer cells: differentiation, receptor repertoire and signaling, receptor ligands, cytokine requirements, function, tolerance mechanisms
• Notch receptors: the role in different ontogenic processes with the emphasis on their crucial role in T cell differentiation. Signalling of Notch receptors. Role in lymphoid tumor cell generation.
• Immune deficiencies: causes, diagnosis and treatment. Immunological mechanisms in cancer and leukaemia development. Perturbation of the immune system by cancer.

Having successfully completed the courses Immunology, Molecular Biology I, Molecular Biology II and Human pathogenesis from the bachelor program biomedical sciences, or having acquired the relevant ending objectives by other means.

Advanced knowledge of molecular immunology. Be able to critically analyse scientific papers.

Hand-outs of the classroom lectures. Selected scientific papers and websites for the group discussions.

Through e-mail.

Classroom lectures;

Evaluation throughout semester as well as during examination period. Special conditions: Evaluation during examination period (75%); Evaluation throughout semester (25%)

During examination period: written closed-book exam complemented with oral examination
During semester: Assessment of participation in and reporting of the group work. Second chance: Possible in adapted form
Frequency: During all group discussions.